Bob, how is the engine mounted. Did you put in a strong cross member?
Been running a stout 350/700R4 with power steering and brakes for over 10 years now. I burn the tires fairly often, have driven it on long trips and its still in great shape. Last time I looked no stress cracks ect. I did weld in a strong cross member to hand the Stang II front end on and I have a good rear cross member.
Hope this helps in your decision.....