big blocks dont do well with high RPMs, thats one of the benefits of smallblocks, longer the stroke on a motor, the harder it is to push it to high rpms... thats why those little hondas can rev so high..... you'll definately want all forged steel parts and even then i would say go with an aftermarket block... but if you're going to stick with a factory block, the 454s are supposed to be some really tough blocks...