I've done a ton of research- so now I'm really confused....

Absolutely a great point - I have 4 more years of 60 hour work weeks until i retire - so while i could steal a weekend for playing with the rebuilt heads and other parts lined up the big motor change just has to wait until i can take my time and enjoy the work . I also have an overdrive trans , 73 disc brake front end and 8 3/4 rear with the large bolt pattern to swap out on the car . I guess I just want to play with it just a little bit until I play with it seriously. And it really runs badly....
Then the most cost, time and effort effective in the NOW it to make WHAT YOU HAVE work. That's what I would do.