what about using factory 4-bolt main caps to convert a 2-bolt 350 block and use main studs? are splayed aftermarket caps really needed for 550-600 horsepower on a stroker smallblock?

Geez, are you really going to make 550+ HP with a stroker? I am guessing if the answer is yes, this will not be a street machine.

I would think that with any small block you would want the outside bolts away from the main webbing. Splayed caps fasten more from the cylinder webbing. Its my understanding that this is the prefered way of beefing up a SBC bottom end.

I am no expert by any means, just my thoughts.

thanks for the input bluerebl,thats kinda what i was after.i was wondering if the splayed design would be significantly stronger(enough to warrant the extra $$$.)i'm shooting for 575 h.p. and as much torque as possible.i am going to pattern this motor after one of dave vizards combos.i plan on playing on the street a little; just enough to get the neighborhood interested,but won't be able to afford to fill up with race gas every day.i plan on maybe 14:1 compression.can i/should i run studs on splayed caps?

How early a block? Don't even try it on a late 70s POS. If you can swing it use an aftermarket or Bowtie it will work much better.

I was running 15:1 in my BB 408 with 2 bolt mains and didn't even know it. I had no problems with the bottom end. If you are going to change to a 4 bolt main. You will spend lots of money at the machine shop. Drilling the bolt holes and having it line bored.