318 Build - Expert Review Needed

He certainly doesn’t “need” the 1.88’s, but those can be installed without the need for additional machine work, other than cutting 8 seats to fit the valves.

And for sure, this would also only be worth a small gain....... but if you find 5-10 small gains....... they add up.

About 30 years ago I re-ringed a 318 that was already .040 over.
Mild port job on some mid-70’s 318 heads, stock valve sizes, performer intake, 340 cam, 1-5/8” headers....... tried a few different carbs on it...... it made solidly over 280hp.