I have a 402 bored to a 408, i have 292 heads on it. My engine builder said i need closed chambered heads to get any compression. Problem is i really dont have the cash to buy any heads unless thier fairly cheap, even then id probably have to have them worked over. I guess my question is will my motor be crap with these open chambered heads?
heres my combo as it sits
408 BBC
comp cam 274/280 cam lift is around 578 i think
Airgap RPM intake
holley 750 DP
pete jackson gear drive
MSD HEI ignition
I got the biggest domes i could in a hypertec piston not sure how many cc they are.
hope thats enough info

I guess you could mill the heads you have or wait til you got more cash.

Your combo is very similar to what's in my car now, 408, 292 heads, UD 272/282 cam, RPM intake, etc... runs mid to low 8's @ 85mph in the 1/8 with some sorry 60ft times. Very fun to drive but I can't wait for my 462 to get assembled!