[Barry_R]

Couple things....
I will try to keep this kinda technical/informational since I am a supplier of parts - and other suppliers support this forum.

The Scat 428 crank uses FE rod journal sizes - not BBC.
The Scat 4.25 and 4.125 stroker cranks use the BBC journals.
The Scat 3.98 stroke crank is designed for internal balance - easy!

In my experience (I've done a couple of these) the Scat rods have been easily the equivalent of the Eagle parts, and sometimes better. No problems with size or weight here. No balance pads on the H beams. Make your selection between the two based on price/availability/vendor relationship.

You will get a discount if you decide to purchase everything at one time. Several suppliers can deliver Scat crank, rods, pistons, rings & bearings, as an already balanced kit for under 2 grand.

The Edelbrocks are a pretty decent head out of the box - essentially a replacement for a 428CJ in terms of flow and power. They have quite a bit of potential and they actually respond quite well to modest upgrades. The 3/8 valve stem size and the 30 degree seat they use are - in my OPINION - a mistake and a holdover from the 60's, and the factory valve job is rudimentary. Pretty much every engine made since then has used a 45 degree seat and an 11/32 or smaller stem - if you decide to upgrade the heads you should follow that well proven path.

The main clearances cited ealier are spot on - follow that advice. If you get in a jam for clearance you can use 351C +1 or -1 main bearings by adding tang notches to the block or grinding the tangs off of the bearings. The tang does nothing - it is an installation alignment aid only.

I agree on the Ersons - very nice parts for the money. They have quite a few in stock right now. Your chosen vendor should be able to supply them.