Thanks for the info and clarification. Like I said 40 years out makes it difficult plus I used to build Chevy's in my car days. Few options back then.

 

The early blocks(late 60s early 70s) are supposed to be a little stronger but if you have a good running 1980s motor I don't think its worth swapping it just for block strength alone...Even if you buy a crate motor it will likely have a similar block..If you are wanting the ultimate in block strength you will have to pay for an aftermarket block which is not a bad idea if you are making well over 400hp..
If your only looking for around 325hp I don't think its a big concern..You can get that with a good set of aftermarket heads,camshaft and intake...

 

Thanks for the info. Fast car. From what I have read it seems AFR makes about the best heads but they are $ and I really don't know if they will produce the increases they say. I still have no clue on the cam.

 

Decide engine longevity goal; 100,000 miles, 20,000 miles, 500 miles, 5 miles.

Decide valve train noise level you can live with.

Decide your engine RPM red line.

Count money in your wallet.

 

my two cents...I would opt for an edelbrock power package. All the thought and worries you have expresed have already been thought out for you. AFR heads are great (I have them) but the componets they come with suck, their threads are too soft and strip like crazy. Ive had to helicoil all the header threads. Edelbrocks already come helicoiled.

http://www.edelbrock.com/automotive_...tek_ford.shtml

 

Can you elaborate on this one?

 

Long story.

Could waste a good crop getting to bottom of valve train noise level vs components used.

Valve train noise complaints even spill over to performance OEM cars.

Roller rockers (cheap and expensive) have many pulling hair over the loud sewing machine racket heard over exhaust note.

I have several videos of racket making roller rocker cars.

If I won lotto I would get shaft rockers w/ 1.5 ratio.

 

Thanks a lot. Good info. That sounds like a good start that will eliminate many of my questions. Package deals take a lot of the guesswork out. Nice car. Thanks again