[hockey44]

First I need to disclose I am a novice with regards to the side oiler. I am considering the Kirkham SS coupled with big block and trying to make an informed judgement on the pros and cons of 427 side oiler (likely stroked) as offered by Southern Automotive) vs Shelby alu. block. There is obviously a significant price differential (I gather about $3-4k alone for the block) but of course the weight saving provides small block handling (I assume).

Since I live and work in Switzerland (am from Vermont) one if the most important issues is 'bombproof' as there simply are not FE experts in this neck of the woods. And the thought of crating and shipping an engine to USA for repairs is prohibitive. My intent will be a weekend car (in the nice months) and some track days as I learn to control the beast but I am looking for a combination of 'streetability' with tracklike performance and reliability (if there is such a thing).

Given this will be a 'keeper' I want to get it right from the get go. Unfortunately it is illegal to run sidepipes (I know it makes me cringe) so the plan is undercarrage dual exhausts and then converting when I return home. Has anyone seen an alum. cobra with rear exhausts ?

I would be grateful on your thoughts re 'bombproof big block' which will work with the Kirkham (hence the 427 route).

Many thanks,
Ed