along with blown head gaskets, i also have a cracked block.

doing a complete engine swap with a 97 lt1
any tips?

 

While you are at it, I assume you are buying a used engine, change ALL seals, put in a cam of your choice and roller rockers of your choice. Have the heads pocket ported and port matched, delete the air pump, do the TB bypass, put on a K&N (or other cold air system of your choice) and have Bryan Herter at PCMforless program your computer. You'll end up with 335HP at the rear wheels and be a happy camper (or wrenchhead, if you prefer). For my .02 cents worth, stay away from the HOT Cam and go with something else (Comp 304?). The HOT Cam eats vacuum and you may harm brakes and etc.