Minor update, still waiting on pistons, they're supposed to be here April 5th. Hoping to drop off the engine parts a week or two later with Jim for machining and assembly! In the meantime I checked spring heights, looks like the retainers Dwayne sourced for me will be perfect with removal of the shim under the spring bucket, but I murdered a valve seal trying to get the first one off so a new set is on the way. Pic attached of my cylinder head build area.

Also dropped the seats off to get recovered by a local upholstery shop, will see those in 6-8 weeks. Going to toss fresh carpet in it as well.