I am pretty new to this forum so I just found the reply at the bottom of the page.
In response to building a reliable, moderate engine.
I always use a boneyard engine. They have gone through hundreds of heating and cooling cycles. I consider them to be stable. I never cared about 2 bolt vs 4 bolt because I just don't run them that hard. I do put three or more angles on my valves. I do port match intake and exhause. I usually run a .196-.204, or .204-.214 cam. I like Edelbrock manifolds and carbs. I like the performer series with matched filter and basket. I usually clean it up .030 whether it needs it or not, and rarely have gone over .040. I have the heads broached with identical broaching. Usually standard Cloyes chain, stock HEI, and especially stock mainifolds. I have tried headers but I do not like the other issues they bring to the equation.
Mostly, I match machining. If I deck the block, I deck it equally. If I broach the heads, I broach the same amount on each. I like high volume pumps and once the engine is broken in, I like synthetic oils. I like it simple. I use 2 1/2 inch exhaust pipes, with corresponding low resistance mufflers. I like a long reach with the exhaust pipes. I also have the intake manifold machined to match the heads. I like to break in the engine real slowly, with no load, and no high rpm moments. You won't develop a ridge in lifters or cyinders under 10,000 miles and I do not believe beating an engine extends its life. I do use billet rods.
Keep it simple, keep it clean. Break it in with care. I check my plugs at 1000, and 5000 just to see how healthy it is. New pulleys, new dampener, and an easy to read timing index.
Just my way. Stock valve covers also.