[Chester B. Stone, Jr.]

Like you say -- opinions. Mine is that the older V Detroits were some of the best engines one could hope for, parts are still available and cheaper than for many engines. Also, reconditioned blocks are also readily available. To switch to a straight 6 would entail great cost and risk. Probably the transmission and differential gear ratio would also have to be changed as well as all of the systems that support the engine. I would never attempt this, but then this is my opinion.