8.25 setup, any ideas?

8-1/4's are plenty strong for a mild 318 in an A-body and $400 is nothing compared to an 8-3/4. I spent $800 on rebuilding my 8-3/4 and the only reason it was that cheap was I found some new parts guys sold cheaper than new prices. It would have been close to a $1000 if I hadn't found the deals.