I am bummed to hear about your motor, I have admired your West Coast on this site, especially your motor for some time. I am just starting the build phase for my West Coast and have been planning the motor for a few years. I have concluded the Crate Motors from Ford Racing are the best deal going right now, check them out and judge for yourself. I will use the 500HP version for $5400 from my local dealer.
The valve in the cylinder issue on your motor, could it have been the valve spring retainer or keeper that failed, sounds like a fatigue type of failure if it happened at low engine speed. Best of luck.
