Some interesting questions...
Weight: I'm not sure about the weight of a FE block, but from what I have gathered from various resources (my Sweedish buddy with a HemiPantera:
http://hem.passagen.se/hemipanter/) that the 528 HEMI short block is about 450lbs and the total weight is around 630lbs. Let me know what the iron block FE's come in at - I'm curious myself.
Sid - thanks for the support! I feel guilty asking for your help as I know you are deep into your own build. Perhaps after you get back from the fling, you can bring your ride (and tools) over and help out? With regards to my seat, or lack thereof, I'm actually sitting on a few 2x6's attached to a 1/4" piece of plywood. I agree, I can only hope I am shorter with the actual seat or that giant rollbar ain't gonna do much good!