Ditch the flat tappet. Period. Although a bigger bit out of the pocketbook, a solid roller will make things way easier here. I don't think a stock rod bottom end will do "7000 all day" but it can surely see it. I think maybe what he meant is that it will hold up literally forever with a 6500 RPM red line......which is about right. Sounds like he wants to do you a fair job and he certainly sounds familiar with the strength of a small block.