The SHP block option is a better way to reach your goals torque being the main objective.Here there are three experts in building engines.Those are Pat,Jerry,and Techinspector1.For you to look at the newer LS series engines is also a very positive step.They have been around now for awhile and available at reasonable prices second hand.Mods on them do produce substantial outputs much easier than the earlier 400 blocks.If I have one regret it is not to have built a LS engine and have built a 383 stroker.