Interesting DeSoto Hemi facts....

The first generation Dodge did have trouble with the crankshafts breaking, but I've never heard of such issues with the DeSoto. When I first decided to look into a Desoto, my motivation was the exploits of Gene Adams and his 291 based Jr. Fueler, which was the first normally aspirated drag car over 200 back in 1970. To the best of my knowledge, everything in the bottom end of that engine (exception of pistons) was production Desoto parts.
I'm using the 276 for fitting and mock-up, but the final product will either be a 330, or I may turn down a 330 crank and build a 313 out of the 276.