Small block combo suggestions

Not sure where the 'has to be closed chamber head' is coming from AJ.....??? Cutting the stock heads about .050-.055" will get them down to around 63 cc's and still leave around .035-.040" open chamber depth.

But following along, rather than the KB232's and mess with the pads (since I doubt he will achieve quench anyway), why not just go to the KB362's? Similar thing without the raised pad, and another 1.4cc's larger compressed volume. With the 362's, you're gonna drop 40 grams of piston/pin weight, and with the 232's, you're adding 86 grams, so it's gonna need a re-balance with any piston change. More $$.....You know how it all goes: "Hmmmm, the bearings look a bit worn.... let's replace them." And on and on.

Just IMHO..... Edlebrock heads on sale from Autozone would be less cost in total $$ and effort than re-vamping the pistons, deck, and bottom end. Some of the $$ for AL heads may come back in resale value.

If 'twer me, I'd be very tempted to just thicken the head gasket with Cometics, and add ARP studs. $300 or so and it's done. (Unless the pushrods are not too short.....dang, it's always sumpthin'! LOL)