Budget 318 build

Back to engine stuff...... It is interesting how a few simple questions can grow and that's good. How we learn.

The engine build questions would be great to first mention the intended purpose and all that we have to work with including budget. This thread started as "budget" build and that is what always gets my intention. Used to be my budget was a trip to the boneyard for a good 3838 out a 69 runnner!
After so much discussion, the info all seems to run together. It would be great if everyone had the build info from the old mopar performance catalogues for basics. I know that is all old and antiquated but still serves a purpose.
I look at return for $ when I do things. What needs to come first, like more HP or better brakes for a start?. Dead stock 318, can I use and love a better gear? Before I start spending $ on the engine? If I bang some gears and never see higher rpm's will a single plane be smart?
We see tons of great discussion and info her on FABO, like the tread about... should I buy a crate engine, who's? or send mine to the machine shop? I know Joey will take all this stuff, write a book, get rich, and retire to the Bahama's!???