Thanks for all the advice. Dropped the block and crank off today. They are going to Cyclone (clean) the block, magniflux test, replace the frost plugs and install new seals (forget exactly what the seal was). They will be calling me afterwards and let me know about how much they suggest decking the block. A quick look at the cylinder walls and I was told they looked great with no top ridge, scoring or pits.

UB.. Thanks for the info on the different sized gaskets. Its something I've made a not on.

Hope to up the compression when we build it as I think stock compression on the 79-82 351w was 8.5 or so and we are looking to move up to 9.5 to 9.7.

 

Sounds like you are all over it. If you need some help with the math on the compression ratio or piston diminsions, just post or shoot me a pm. Make sure you write down how much they machine what so you will have it when buying parts. That is going to be important for you or your engine builder.

 

IF you have the block decked, you should do the heads as well. Intake will not be an issues if they are just taking the minimum off to clean them up. Your machine shop will advise you on how much needs to be removed and if that will affect your intake alignment.