I understand That. Most of us who run the older engines do it because we want to not because it is the "best" choice. Several years ago I made a 4,000 mile in one week trip in my '53 pickup.(Northern Nevada-Southern California,-Central Texas and back) Under the seat along with tools was a water pump, distributer, belts, some gaskets and some other things I didn't think I'd find in a store. On a similar trip my son and I lost the OD solenoid on his '54 Studebaker. (4.27 rear end) It was one of the parts we didn't have stashed in the spare tire compartment. So though I have made many roadside repairs, some serious fixes, they only become great adventures when you get it all home. As a former parts counterman I can tell you it will only get worse as demand for older parts decreases and the $$$$ per square foot of floor space goes up.
I still think I'd give the big Ford six a serious look. My second would be the 7.3 International turbo diesel V8 from a 1994 Ford F350. Bullet proof and no electronics.
