I'm pretty much the same way most of the time. But this particular car is beautiful inside and out (including engine bay and motor). I want to make it "right".
Well... there's a right way and a ton of wrong ways to do something. Sounds like your car's worth it and its even better when you learn to do something yourself.
Your issue is not that complicated and is easily fixed following the right procedures.
There's a vast wealth of info on this site about everything A-Body and lots of members willing to help if you need it.