Thanks to everyone that replied. Great info and VERY much appreciated. Engine will be for street use although I may be temped to get on it occasionally
Went to shop yesterday and looked at rods with machinist. Problems noted were several and maybe they are OK for a street rebuild. I'm not knowledgeable enough to know.
Caps are slightly crooked on the inner surface. If you run your finger inside you can feel a definite lip. Not a smooth joint. Also the cap ends are a bit out of round, already oversize and different widths. He's worried about uneven wear and excessive lateral movement on the crank.
A couple also have some twist to them.
The machine shop is pretty well know in the old car hobby locally. Not sure how many 216/235/261's he's done but it's several. His shop is one of the only ones in town that works on the old stuff. Lot's of engines from the 20's to 70's. His rebuilds are known for running smooth and quiet and lasting.
