The interior is well underway and it’s time to think of the next mini/major project. Should I start to rebuild and upgrade my 383 Engine or rebuild and upgrade my Torqueflight A-727?
I have books for both, and this forum for unlimited knowledge!
What is the time frame between building them and using them, and has the build for both been planned out?
I would say, rebuild the transmission first. It is easier to seal up for storage, unlikely to be damaged from storage, less space to store, less time and expense to build, the trans-gel and ATF used in assembly won't dry out or go bad in storage like some engine assembly lubes, and the parts/technology used are less likely to change.
With engines, there are new parts released much more often (although not that much with the 383) that may change what you use for pistons, rings, bearings, heads, intake, exhaust, cam, timing set, oil pump, carb/efi, oil pans, timing covers, valve covers, ignition system, cooling system...
There is also the issue of storing a newly rebuilt engine. Will the engine be fired up and break-in performed before storage, or will it be sitting with just the assembly lube on the parts? How long will it be sitting? Will it be stored with the rocker arms installed and some of the valves open? Are you using a flat tappet cam that might need valve springs changed for engine break-in (like dual springs?)