Welcome Snkbte.
Nice to see another NSW member since we seem to have a shortage of them on here. Plenty of Victorians but too many Queenslanders
Pneal is another Sydney side Classic Revival builder and would be a good guy to talk with on here.
As to your questions:
Engines, Yep 2005 models sees the release of the LS2 which now displaces 6.0 litres and makes about 300KW factory stock. It's pretty much a redesign and refinement job on the LS1 and LS6 and many of the parts will be interchangable. Things have been redesigned ant tweeked and there were rumors that it was going to be a twin cam pushrod but I don't think that panned out. I believe US cars for 2005 are getting them but I'm not sure yet if the Aussie cars will get the LS2. Unfortunately even if they do you probably won't see any new crate motors or wrecked cars appearing for another year.
Classic Revival build manual, It's a bit basic. Your best resource is asking the guys on here who have built or are still building for the detail info. There's quite a few of us now and we've all built them different ways so I'm sure someone will be able to supply an answer for you.
Paint. Notice that the the word Paint starts with "Pain". I'm working on getting mine ready for paint at the moment. I've done pretty much everything else on my car but I'm leaving the paint to a professional. Try to find some one who is experienced with prepping fiberglass bodies because a whole bunch of different techniques and materials are required for a lasting quality finish.
Les is right on one point (first time for everything
) Most of the posts in here are either technical or giving each other a stir. It's a laugh all in good fun and they are a great bunch of felow enthusiasts whom I like and respect.
So come on in, open a beverage of your choice and put your feet up.
Cheers