Engine Flat tappet to Roller?

[johnt785]

I’m a engine novice but learning a lot, so thank you for expertise and advice:

I have an all stock 1982 gt 5.0 needing rebuilt/fixed.

Can I rebuild the engine and swap the current flat tappet set up for a roller cam, rod, and lifters? Or is it better to just buy a whole explorer roller engine? I’d like to use what I’ve got if it can work.

Thanks