i also heard that you can run higher compression with aluminum heads because they dissipate heat quicker....so technically they lower your compression ratio????? and if that's the case, along with elevation losses....i'm basically screwed for performance aren't i? unless i build a new higher compression bottom end. in which case i would do a stroker. what stroke would you guys recommend? i could do a 388 or a 401 with my other block, also i have machine shop friends that would clearance the block for the 3.875 in stroke for me. what compression ratio would you guys recommend on pump gas (91 octane)? 10.5:1? i plan to stay up here at about 4500 ft for a while, but even if i did go to the bay area or something, would their 93 octane gas cancel out the elevation problem? i have another friend with a 496 BB with aluminum heads that seems to be running fine with about a 10.8:1 CR. and that's not my equation to figure it out, that's what the machine shop said when they built it for him.

i was thinking if i just put a smaller cam in this combination, won't my heads be way too big for the rest of the motor then?