"I love it when a plan comes together!" All these little tweaks are good to know- - - -you might want to consider detailing the process in a tech tip once the job is done. I've found another rod and piston combination that might work with the long stroke crankshaft- - - - -a 170 cubic inch Ford six has the right compression height with a stock stovebolt 235 rod, with the big end bushed down to use a Jeep CJ-2 or CJ-3 rod bearing. That will allow a 4 5/16" stroke and puts the piston very close to the top of the block.
Jerry

"It is better to be silent and be thought a fool than to speak and eliminate all doubt!" - Abraham Lincoln
Cringe and wail in fear, Eloi- - - - -we Morlocks are on the hunt!
There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self. - Ernest Hemingway
Love your enemies and drive 'em nuts!