A few years ago I rescued a 231 V6 out of a '85 Delta 88 and I was planning a rebuild to put into my Datsun 4x4. I have been on several forums trying to find some info on building this engine and everyone that responded pretty much told me to junk it because it'* not a reliable engine. Their advice was to use a 4.3 Vortec.

I'm looking to build a reliable truck that will get me to some trails for camping and exploring. I don't need it to be fast; I need it to be reliable.
I have some .030 over pistons and a Performer intake but I'd like to know if there is anything in particular that I should focus on. I'd like to run a TBI from a 4.3 and I'm getting an adapter to run either a T350 or a 700r4 transmission. The truck has 4.37 gears and I'll be using a 235/75 tire.

If anyone has any advice on building this engine, I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks.

I agree, find a newer 4.3 Vortec, either TBI or fuel injected. Parts are more readily available for the newer ones.