[olddog]

Your welcome to your feelings I will not argue with that, but the flat torque curve on that engine is exactly what I would want in an engine.

A little more cam/springs or some porting and sure you could get the last 40 Hp, but I would bet you will loose more torque down low, where you will be driving 95% of the time, than you will gain up top. No sir, I wouldn't touch that engine. Glad you feel you don't want to take the time, as you are going to like this engine more than the one you wished for. "Thank God for unanswered prayers."

At least that is my opinion.

OBTW
On an engine if this size 1 deg of timing can make a 50 hp change. A little higher octane fuel and some wreck-less timing and he could have made the target. A less scrupulous builder ????