Thanks for the response, yeah I know other engines will bolt in but its not a piece of cake. I have a 1997 4.2 block and internals. None of the accessories will bolt up so I'd have to find p/s, alternator, a/c , etc and get that all worked out. Going to a 302 I'd just be better off getting a GT so I'd have the better brakes / rear. I wanted to keep it simple. This car is super clean and all original(to bad it wasn't a gt). It runs great, except for a rear main seal leak it really doesn't need anything. I'm not looking for a hot rod but I figured since I had the crank and rods I'd throw them in to get a bit more power if it will fit.
On another note, can anyone confirm the 3.8 has 1.6 rocker arms ? I believe the 4.2 has 1.7 and I am thinking of swapping the 1.6 for the 1.7's. Has anyone done this with these engines.