No offense, but if a 400hp SBF could be built for $1500 and still survive any sort of real usage, everyone would have one (most people just think they do).

If It was me in your position, I would get the engine running first and figure out what (if anything) is wrong with it. Minor adjustments may get it running suprisingly well.
Save money and build the lil critter right at a later date.


SBFtech is a great resource, tho mildly sycophantic and of the "Use the best parts, or go away" mentality, so bring a grain of salt.