So if I end up going the Stoker kit route, I will end up easily spending close to $10,000? Because the guy I bring my car to(strictly a mopar mechanic) saids about $10,000 will get me a 440 dropped into my car replacing my 360. For a complete, all new but the castings, dyno'd and ready to install 408 built by others you will spend real close to it unless either the parts are lower price point, or the labor is cheap. It is my assertion that either of those are a sure way to spend more than you budgeted. If you dont have a 440 and transmission, you will spend more than $10K to have someone aquire everything and get it in the car for you. You certainly could "do it yourself". But that's not the fastest or easiest way to go about it.
If a stroker kit will cost me about the same amount, I'm probably better off just waiting and do the 440. Right? In my opinion - wrong. The 440 has a 3.75" stroke and weighs about 150 lbs more. The 408 has a 4" stroke. Stroke is what you immediately feel when driving the car. That's why a 440 feels so much stronger thna the 360's 3.58" stroke. So you have to weigh your options (pardon the pun). the 440 will get the looks at the drive-in. The 408 will be easier to maintain, handle, and stop better and bolt up to the transmission and radiator you have now.
Forgive me, I'm new to learning about these classic cars(especially mopars) so I'm just trying to educate myself as everyone gives me their feedback. Btw I appreciate everyones comments and suggestions.