Thanks for the kind words Grinder.
My motor uses the 198 rods/2.2 turbo pistons, and a 225 crank. I normally shift it at 6200, but have shifted at 6500+ many times. It really doesn't need to go that high though, it does not go any faster.
My next motor for the Daytona will use stock 225 rods. They are .300" shorter than the 198 rods, and will live at a 6700 shift point.
The idea that a 170 will turn 8000 is more myth than reality. The NASCAR compacts redlined at 5800.
