1976 GMC Truck Crate Engine or Rebuild?

I purchased a 1976 GMC Sierra Grande 1500 with a 350/350 4bbl that is showing signs of stress. It vibrates when the vehicle accellerates, smooths off once you reach hiway speeds, compression is depressing, none to speak of...chugs gas like NHL fans drinkin' beer watching their team loose, or win for that matter, guess the beers go down the same...ha ha....anyway, I am wondering if I should buy a ZZ4 crate engine $4100 (turn key or not?) or should I go with a rebuild or my own engine? At least with the ZZ4, I could transfer it to another vehicle at a later point in time, not to mention the enjoyment I would have with the ZZ4 in a '76 GM Pick-Up. Also, I will have to have my local mechanic do the engine install for me, how much should I expect to pay after it is all said and done? Also, does anyone know if there is a local spot to purchase a Crate Engine, or should I go On-Line, order it have it shipped to Calgary to my local mechanic, and go from there?

Any input is appreciated


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Well a crate motor is easy just buy and install but i would do a rebuild to have a feeling of doing something good, you it the feeling you did something and not someone else. But the zz4 350 is nice and you can get heads and a cam and rockers and make 92hp over stock! not bad.