Hey Roper,

You might want to peak at some crate motors or short blocks already built. You could pick up a stroked 351 and have 380-430 cubes depending on the kit and bore. Also, you should look at some AFR185 or AFR205's. I've seen guys find used aluminum heads and sometimes have problems. By the time they get some new valves, springs, get the heads cleaned up, some guides, valve job and possibly the heads milled, then maybe some light porting, you can have a set of NEW 185's. I haven't priced the 205's but the 185's can be had for $1300.

You can focus more of your efforts on the brakes, suspension and drive train and body and paint and get a good top notch engine builder to get you a crate motor.