318 Duster Rebuild - pros and cons of keeping matching numbers

Ken71Twister said
The engine runs great but it drips oil like crazy. It was rebuilt in about 1990 - approximately 70K miles ago. It has to come out for the restoration work and it only makes sense to me to spend the money necessary to get it fixed professionally while I’m already paying the labor to have it pulled and re-installed. I appreciate the advice and references…. I’ll continue to read additional posts and I will follow up on references provided.

Hi Ken, this is Steve. I don't know if you remember meeting my wife and I in Destin a couple years ago when you were looking for some information on the value of your car. Just want to say that I'm really glad you still have it. I really think that car is rarer than most people think.
If I were you, once they pull the engine, I would put it on an engine stand and put a new gasket kit in it and new freeze plugs. Some fresh engine paint and you should be good to go for another 80,000. Engine doesn't leave your sight and you'll have much less time and money in invested in the project, keeping it all original.
Mission accomplished! Just my 2 cents worth.
Again, really glad you still have it. I haven't seen one like it in all the car shows I've been to.