Ive been looking for 68 to 70 motors so I can start off with higher compression, but most guys want $1000 for used short blocks.

Ive found a guy with a couple 440's from 73 Imperials. They are complete from pan to pulleys to carb, but they are out of the car. Not sure how to compression test these or if the compression test would do me any good without the engine warmed up. He says they all turn over. He wants $400 for a complete engine plus the tranny. As long as there is no internal water damage, spun bearings or bent valves I think this could be a good deal even if they need a rebuild.

Were 440s that went into imperials assembled any different than 440s that went into cheaper cars like furys or trucks? What compression ration and heads should I expect from this motor?