Thanks everyone,

Superdawg: What type of 'help' does the d30 need to make it last? I do have a buddy who welds for a living and will bring his big welding truck over here if I buy him some beer. If I go spring over now, will the 32s look waaaay too small? I can't afford new tires for a while, but if I'm going to have perches welded on I might as well go SOA now and not waste his and my time later.

Big Jim: I asked for advice and that's what you gave me, once I get the engine back together (changing the rings right now, you can see everywhere I've been by following the oil...) I'll try the NB and see if it runs even better. Thanks.

I like this forum a lot already.
Chris

PS While changing the rings I just found that the last guy installed them with all of the ring gaps lined up (DUH) and the #6 piston is broken. That must be what that tapping noise was when it was cold...