Bolts and Gaskets

[jinx44]

I have decided to keep this a budget build, with hopes of 450 HP. I have read the FAQ on limits of stock pistons and rods, but am hoping to stretch the limits a bit.

Head bolts, main bolts, and rod bolts... How far can you take stock bolts? Engine was original, so bolts have only been torqued once.

What gaskets (intake and head) should I run? I have had great luck with MLS gaskets on other engines, but I see many people run a FelPro with fire ring.

[Stinger]

Rod bolts are the first to go, upgrading them would help a stock shortblock stay together.

Gaskets seem to vary, some do it with a stock type gasket, some with the felpro 1035, some with mls.