Small block crankshaft endplay

I noticed you're going to have to get a new crank (you said you have a few), you'll need new pistons and rods resized or new rods. At this point, it seems to me you're pretty close to a stroker setup. If it's not in the cards I understand, just my two cents.
That conversation has definitely come up. Its not a completely off the table possibility, I think he's just waiting to hear from the machine shop as to the overall condition of the block. Its a 205k miles worn out engine and while I think it's going to be usable, who knows what the magnaflux will show, if that's good, are there any significant issues with the cylinders that would not be able to be cleaned up with bore work. If its a scrap piece of metal, then the 360 would be the route with upgraded aluminum heads and whatnot. Or even the possible sourcing of a 340.