"Freshen" a runner or buy a rebuilt engine?

[bull]

I just ran across an ad for a running 383 HP 4bbl that was pulled out of a 68 Monaco "special order" three weeks ago, he says, with 37k original miles on it. He says it ran perfect but I doubt I'd be able to hear it run to know that since it's sitting on an engine stand. He wants $600 which is a good deal IMO and it's got an Edelbrock Performer manifold and all the add-on stuff to go with it except a carb and exhaust manifolds so in essence I could probably sell all the extra stuff I already have and get some of my money back. So would a compression test tell me about as much as I can learn about it, and do I gamble $600 even then? Or do I go with the balanced/rebuilt 383 long block for $1,800?

[1BAD68]

I'd go with the $600 dollar engine.
Compression test is mandatory, spin it over by hand when you look at it, it should feel smooth. Also look in the exhaust ports and see what the valves look like. If they are all cruddy looking, its a sign of bad valve seals thats all but they should look all the same.
$600 is a good deal for a low mileage 383.

[bull]

I talked to the guy and thought about it and decided to pass. There's no good way to get an accurate compression reading the way it sits (and he doesn't "have the time" to work out an alternative) and I don't have an extra $600 to gamble or the desire to burn $50 in gas to see it. In the end I'd rather spend $1,800 on a sure thing than potentially end up with a $600 boat anchor. I've already got one used 383 sitting on the floor, I don't need another.

[max]

I talked to the guy and thought about it and decided to pass.

sounds like you made a smart decision. 

[bull]

I talked to the guy and thought about it and decided to pass.

sounds like you made a smart decision. 

I think so. It probably would have worked out but like I said it's not worth the gamble to me. He sold it today anyway. There's apparently a lot of people with more "playing around" money than me out there.

[Steve P.]

Hey Bull,  if you have not stuck any money out there yet on a different motor and you ARE thinking about going back to a 383 then I would say just build yours.. You mentioned something about storing it. I thought you WANTED a 440. If you are thinking 383 I say just do yours... You are not planning any big build from it either way. Besides, you have everything for a low block....

Also I think VegasMike still has a low block Street Dominator for sale. All blasted and ready....