oldskool:
It's obvious you have an interest in racing a Stocker and that's great! Using what you have always gives you the best bang-for-the-buck.
I still see your Ventura as the way forward for 'ya. Plop on a dash pad, square away the hood, a couple of patch panels for the rear quarters, scarf up some used Cal Tracs and you're darn near there. A basic build 350 with a decent camshaft and you're at the track. Heck, give Mr. Ringer a call...who knows what might be available?
For what it's worth, at one of our Midwest Class Racers Stock/Super Stock events this past season, Tom Lewis came from the last qualifying spot (#43) to win the final round and the $2,000. His opponent in the final was the #1 qualifyer, Rich Muhlenhardt.
If you're out there racin' you're a player.
-Al