Hey Rumblefish I'm late to this thread but I'm curious as to why you would stay away from a Magnum 360? Aren't those roller cammed? Aren't those a little better stock then an LA series engine?
A roller cam is 3X's the price of a basic "LA" Hyd. cam. An "LA" cam and lifter set can be about under $200. Solid or Hyd.
Magnum heads tend to crack.
Rather than start with a Magnum engine and require him to purchase Magnum only parts, the "LA" block can accept Magnum parts. A Magnum block can not accept the "LA" heads onless you drill the block. (More money spent!)
Then theres extra money in getting it to mate up to the converter of an "LA" engine. OK, the B&M balance plate is only a few bucks, but why spend it to begin with if you dont have to.