I had a 340 before we built this 360 , wish ihad never got rid of that engine . It was a 69 340 +.030 that would buzz 72 all day long , and like you said it just got stronger . I pounded that motor 25 years without changing anything but oil , plugs and carb . I haven't had this 360 3 years and popped it 2times now with these hyperutectic cast pistons that are supposed to be so nice. talking right now about what is an affordable forged piston and rings for under 600.00 LUV 340"s .