Honestly, if you get a good 318 I wouldn't think twice about using the 318 crank, rods, and even (watch out!!) the factory rod bolts. I've been beating on 318's (probably 35+ of them) for about.... 35 years and have yet to have one give way. But, I mean you have them and if you want to use them, they'd work great.
Get a 4-speed with 355 gears and hold third gear to the end of the quarter mile LOL.. he may not lose a crank, but the rod bearing may not like it LOL.. ask me how I know...
