Sorry to hear about the cracked piston. That sucks!I feel pretty good then about my 10.74 a couple years ago. Probly had more in it but never got a chance. Friend cracked a piston in it while driving around with no alcohol in the tank. At least he stepped up and paid the bill.
I totally agree on your part about putting the car on Jenny Craig/gutting it out to make it faster... Of course that's a major factor getting those last few tenths shaved offGetting it done 15+ years ago is more impressive then doing it now. Technology etc has improved.... I don't believe for a minute anyone doing it lately and has raced a almost 30 year old motor and not had it open.