Thanks Glenn. That is helpful. So do you think I should go with a regular hydraulic flat tappet cam? Something around 232 duration with .510" lift? If I did this, I probably wouldn't need to clearance the rod bolts. It's been years since I worked on this motor, but last time I installed the pistons, the rods were hitting the cam.

So I'm thinking that you believe these heads are not that great? If I were going to get the heads machined and a valve job and all that, I would probably just invest in some aluminum heads for $1100 or so. I don't want to invest much in these heads. I would get them cleaned but that's about it.

My other options was going with an already assembled 383 short block for $2200 and throw these heads on it. I think these should be good for 420hp with a cam, Performer RPM or Victor Jr. intake and a 750dp Demon carb. Just not sure if I want to invest in 400 with cast crank or just go with a pre assembled 383 short block for the $2000. The price might be around the same.