late olds 350-455, who runs them?

Those are some of my favorite engines. I prefer the short stroke 400 and 425 but have had a couple 330s that ran like stink for stockers. I've never owned a 350 but the early 350 heads are supposed to flow real good. They all have some valve train and oiling weaknesses but if you keep the rpms under 5000 you should be ok. They don't wind like a small block chevy, and don't need to. Even my 66 442 got it's best times if I short-shifted it a little, say around 4900.
All that said, I don't think they are the most visually appealing engines for a hoodless car.

 

I got a 455 in my 64 Cutlass. A 330 in my 64 F-85 wagon and a spare 350 and spare 455. About cranks, Eagle makes one for the 455. Search Summit´s website. Stay away from Mondello!