I have a line on a complete vortec 454 (1999) for $250. Is it worth it to use it as a base to start on a 500hp build. What do you guys think

Should be a factory roller 4-bolt block, I'd keep that and toss the rest.

If it has a boat cam I would grab it in a flash for 250 those are getting hard to come by .stick.it in a corner and wait for the next freeze and you will do well

you can,t find a block for 250 yet alone a complete engine,i say grab it if it is running and not junk.

I would grab it also for $250 if it runs. It's a gen 6 block and that alone is worth it. I'm not sure what they have for lower end parts (cast or forged), and you would want to throw the rest away or sell.