Explain taller? Did you add a different intake? If the motor is a 273 then the engine shouldnt be taller then before with the exception of the intake or air cleaner. Are the mounts that you replaced the same as the old ones were? Dont cut the hood until you figure out why its up that high. Back in the early 80's I had a 66 Dart that I put a 340 with an edelbrock high rise intake and it fit. Im not sure about the 360 I just installed in mine now but I think the hood will fit.
And by the way, I am pushing towards 3 years since I bought the 66 Dart I am doing now and it still hasnt seen road in that time either. As for good investment, I can tell you we wont see our money back but the pleasure of working on it is priceless! As others have said stick with it. If theres anything I can hep with just give a shout!
Best of luck
Rod
