318LA/906 SBE build it OR go Big block?

How long since it last ran. Forget the 440 for now. Try and get what you have running to see where your at. Trans and brake operation, the entire fuel system, electronics, etc. You may find your ''budget'' wont go as far as you think. JMO
i am in the process..
off course the starter is bad, so i ordered a Dakota mini Starter
then i will go from there...
i know the brakes are bad ( no brakes for now) but thats ok. i was aware.