need help on build 440

Welcome to the board, and the cars...
What I'm reading is kind of common with people new to the mopars, and cars in general. First things first. Read up on everything you can in the magazines, but try to read around the product names. They pay for the articles, and many times, arent the best. Now, you have the car..Good base to start with, BTW. If you dont know the mechanical condition, then I would suggest installing a running engine into it, and then asses it. Worry about safe and fuctional first. (trust me, you'll enjoy it a lot more later...) Pick up the other engine. see what you have to work with. In terms of ease, a small block in a dart is a great place to start. Now, if you plan to rebuild any engine, there are certain steps that should be taken to make sure it stays together, and makes the power it's supposed to. Any 340/360 is a good starting point. The 440 Dart isnt tricky, but there are a few things needed, and that takes more $$, and, can really be a handfull on the street. the stroker small blocks are the way to go, IMO. Just dont get so excited that you loose sight of the plan..And you should start my making a plan and a budget..then get it running and safe, and you can enjoy it while you get the other stuff together.