[elmariachi]

Hello,

I am new here, working on building a 427SO and looking at various kits from which to build a MKIII this winter. I am in Houston and though this is my first build, I have quite a bit of experience with high-performance offshore boats, 4-wheel drives and older muscle cars. But never a big honkin' Ford FE. I have located a 1969 SO block though I am still going back and forth between it and a Genesis. My plan is to build it up at 427ci, single 4-barrel, medium riser, ~500hp. So a few questions:

1. I have located a nice C5AE forged steel crank, cross-drilled, re-ground 10 under and perfect after magnafluxing and balancing. Would this be preferred to say the Scat 9000 $700 crank?

2. How are the Blue Thunder head and intake products? Are there better choices for the $$?

3. I have read that Le Mans rods are too big and heavy versus the newer stuff, but I have a nice set that are ready to go. I don't have an endless budget, but want to spend wisely in the most critical areas. Will they get it done or should I go with a newer H-beam?

Thanks in advance for any comments or feedback.

Jim