Kevin-
I built an aluminum 482 from the bare block up. It was both challenging and enjoyable. I'm still getting it sorted out...
I took advice from many folks on this forum and other forums. The knowledge and experience floating around in cyberspace is astounding. You do realize that you have one of the pre-eminent FE gurus over there in Hastings, don't you? Use him and you won't regret it. An FE machinist is worth his weight in cast iron
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phil