We have a LHS close by....My only complaint is they NEVER put model kits on sale.....I have been going there since I got back in the hobby 4 1/2 years ago.....I have paid thier full price everytime...I even asked at one point if they would work with me on a purchase....Nope!
I will be following this build...Just a FYI, there is no difference in the size of the 396 or 427 or even 454 for that matter....The only way to tell which is which is to disassemble the motor and measure the bore and stroke....Awesome job so far!