The 216 is a "low speed engine" because it uses Babbitt bearings (vice
more modern "insert" bearings) and is . . . Gutless.
With the stated criteria of "near original" and "stick shift," I'd
suggest a 250 or 292 I-6 & a T-5 out of an 86-92 S-10 (i.e., mechanical
speedo, forward located shifter). Not as gutless, equally thirsty,
mitigated some by the T-5.
If you want the truck to have good torque, may I suggest a stroked 350
(if bored, would be a "383") & a modern, forward-mounted shifter T-56.
Spendy. Plenty of torque, ability to handle hills.
Ken's right - the real issue is how handy the person doing the
conversion is.
RT
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