I've heard of a few folks running slicks.

PhatSVT (S/C SVT) has slicks already and is getting a Terry Haines prepped MTX-75 (quaife, gears, clutch, etc)and he'll be running them next spring!!!
Do I hear a HELL YEAH!!! laugh

Haven't heard of anyone building up the bottom end. IIRC someone was trying the SHO bearings (from SHO V8) & a few people have sources for Forged & even titanium parts (rods, crank, pistons)

2000 SVT #674 - Check it out!

Whoever coined the phrase; "If it ain't broke; don't fix it" ~ Just doesn't get it...