Suggestions for a 318 build

400 out of a 318 is doable and easy with a med. size cam. There have been a few mag write ups on the matter.

No exotic parts needed. No stoker cranks. Nothing over the top or expensive to search for. The amount of machining is mostly up to the condition of the block and what it needs. Otherwise, a standard type of work should be done. IF it needs and over bore, then overbore it. If the cranks needs to be machined, machine it. Nothing fancy going on here.

I would suggest a set of KB flat top zero deck pistons for a good compresion ratio.
I think there the KB 167's. They need not be at zero deck exactly, but a good bump in compresion is what is needed for a good performance start.
Also, if your con rods are bent and need rebuilding, new after market rods work out cheaper and lighter.

Would a set of 4.10's be to much gear? OR a cruise on the Hwy. @ 60 and 3300 rpm to much?
I can and have lived with this for years. Since it was not a daily driver and such, it was very tolorable.

My pervious hot rod (73 4spd Cuda/360) ran such gear and low 12's, pump gas, went everywhere anytime, and it wasn't a mother to maintain. Driven 3 - 5 times a week.