Art, thanks for the detailed description. I suppose the desert heat didn't help things.I could be wrong but I believe with the 408 the piston wrist pin finds itself located furthur up in the piston ring cluster.You might also find a little more piston slap in the bottom of the stroke.
Whatever you choose to build I wish you all the best,
Danno
PANTERA INTERNATIONAL
A DE TOMASO CAR CLUB
Presents the De Tomaso Forums
The On-Line Meeting Place for De Tomaso Owners and Enthusiasts From Around the World
Clicking on the banner will take you to the sponsor's website.