I went with Vortec heads, Erson TQ-40 cam and the flat-top pistons I got the higher pressure z28 drop-in springs and .035 up locks for the valve stems to compensate for the new lift in the Vortec heads. I also splurged and got a 3hp mini starter. After I had the block all the way together on the stand I realized something was not right with the rotating assembly. Turns out a rod stud was bent and was causing it to bind up the crank. I went to the guys at Accurate engine and got a new crank, bearings and a replacement rod. Now it's back together and I started it up and it seems to be running pretty strong. The increased compression is very noticeable and the Edelbrock 1405 is plenty good as is with standard jets and metering rods. So far I'm pretty happy with the build and I figure 400 hp is a good target. It is hard to tell anything from a stand run so I'll have a friend at Lincoln tech dyno the car after the engine is in and broken in. if it isn't obvious from the pic I have a dual plane intake and some worthless chrome pan and chain covers that don't add any performance numbers but make me happy anyway. also my brother is planning on running almost the same exact setup on his 72 nova with a 327 that he is putting a five speed overdrive transmission in from an 80s pickup truck. 355 engine.jpg