[DanEC]

If you decide to go for the 475 HP range you don't need some of the above high dollar stuff to do so. I built for torque and used the 4.25 stroke crank in a 428, ported/larger valves 1961 390 HP iron heads (essentially same as low riser 427 or CJ heads now), 1963 low riser dual 4bbl intake, 9.0 pistons and flat tappet hydraulic cam with Ford adjustable rockers, etc. It made 475 HP at around 5500 rpm and 530 ft lbs of torque on the dyno. I'll lose some of that with the S&H air cleaners, exhaust and accessories in the car.

I also went with a 3.31 rear but with a WR toploader. It was a highly recommended combination for a non-overdrive transmission. I'm not sure what your first gear is with a Tremec 600.

If you go the 550 HP route, yeah - you'll probably need most of the above with a 428 block.