With all due respect to George....and from what I hear, he's earned it, and since you're on the West Coast, another place to consider, would be Larsen & King (a.k.a. Portland Engine Rebuilders) in Portland, Oregon Ted King built my 427 S/O and many others for Cobras. To my knowledge, none of them have given the owners anything but big grins.
As has been previously said, not just every Tom Dick and Harry can successfully build a 427.
The suggestions for a leakdown test and a look see at the rocker shafts are a pretty cheap thing you can do yourself. Also the intake manifold. It's truly amazing what an internal
oil leak can cause in the way of smoke and excess
oil usage.
If you want to contact Ted King for info. His shop # is: 503-230-1276
Tell him Al Martindale recommended you to call. No I don't get a spiff, but he'll warm up to the conversation quicker. Ted is currently building a 427 S/O for another well known Club Cobra person.
Do keep us all posted.
Al