Going to build a 440 - any thoughts?

Why would you order rings and bearings before the machine work is done?
You need to build a strong bottom end first.
No need to buy aluminum heads, if you machine just put a fresh valve job in the parts you have.
Spend your money now for good pistons, balance, crank turning etc.
I rebuilt a stock 440 years ago in a 76 power wagon extra cab 3/4 ton truck.
Used thermo quad and stock iron manifolds, and intake.
The truck never lacked once for power and would tow anything you hooked to it.