396= 4.094" bore with 3.76" stroke
427= 4.250" bore with 3.76" stroke
454= 4.250" bore with 4.00" stroke
Essentially the 454 is just a stroked 427.
May have to do some clearancing, but someone like Infomaniac could help you with that info.
There are a couple of good books on the Big Block Chevy out there. Probably find them at "Barnes and Noble" or any other big bookstore chain.
Yeah, the cranks will interchange. You can sure do it in stages. First step would be to find out why the motor doesn't turn anymore. If a component has trashed the inside of the block, you're done.
If block comes apart ok, just needing machining, you can purchase a tall-deck kit of your size choice from any speed shop. More $ gets better parts.