You guys rock, and commendation from sharp tools is high praise indeed.
I'm in Sacramento, CA and also the Bay Area, on the peninsula.
I am serious. The engine is an icon for me but I am worried that it's a bit beyond the scope of my mechanical abilities. It's not easy for me to admit that, but it is possible and I have to be honest with myself.
On the other hand, I want something I can grow into. Certainly that opportunity here. I already know Windsor engines, and have always loved the FE series, especially the 427.
In the other thread I've detailed my concerns, too much blow by causing
oil to be expelled from the breather. That's the biggie, whether to take the risk and freshen the engine, hoping that nothing worse awaits inside it.
I'd be crushed if we discover there's some terminal problem, and end up having to replace the 427 with something (I hope I don't offend anyone by using this term) "lesser." Then the whole point of this will have been lost, and I'd be very disappointed.