I have to agree with you about being able to get 500 from a 360, if built right.
I read in Mopar Muscle of a 318 build, without stroking it, that delivered around 400 hp. I have the article with a list of all the parts used and machine work done. It would appear that 500 is doable with the right parts. I know that I will need lots of help and advise and I am hoping that Fogel and moper will chime in. I am not that far from Pat Fogel and I am willing to drive.
I would just hand Fogel the cash,if I was that close to him.LOL!He seems to know his stuff!Between him(PFogel,Moper and waggin)you could come ahead with quite the 360,with limited spending?It would cost you$$but done right!My 2 cents!