Finally Doing this thing...

[Russ Pottenger]

One of the benefits of utilizing my pisston with a 1.385 compression height is that it allows you the option to not having to surface the block in order to achieve a zero deck. If your machine shop chooses to do a minimum surface the standard.051 Felpro head gasket would be a good choice.

[KCKrogoth]

Haven't forgotten about this project, just trying to organize costs and finances, thanks for the info an help Russ, I'll be reaching out to pull the trigger here eventually.

I do have a few other questions to go along with this setup...

I was driving into town the other day in the ZJ to get emissions done and registration accomplished, and it is stupid hot here in NM lately, so the temp started seeking on the side of 225ish on the dummy dash gauge...I guess my next question is since I plan to do this engine upgrade, should I look into a better cooling system? Do the strokes run hotter? Is there a better radiator or fan option I should look at?

[Cheromaniac]

I suggest you look for an aftermarket aluminium radiator for your model. Aluminium dissipates heat faster and the radiator is likely to have a thicker core for more efficient cooling.