Mark, I am not making any mods to the stock block - in fact, it's still standard bore!
Stefano, I think I will have some fun with the Day Two look as well, but for sure I'm not throwing away the smog or any other original stuff - The way I want to do it could all be changed back in a weekend.
Dan, I hear what you are saying about the M/T covers - those are painted because I picked them up that way, I would certainly strip and polish them before installation if I go that way. Meanwhile, they make good "paint booth" covers!
I think with those tall rocker adjustors and locks I may need to run spacers under the stock chrome covers - although that could look cool too - more of a stealth look. Current plans are to also run white-coated headers and an open element air cleaner.
Thanks for all the opinions so far, please keep 'em coming!
-Sam