Originally Posted by 82Waggy
You don't need to drill any holes or make any internal oiling system mods so long as you ensure your pump is in good shape. The best oiling related mod you can do aside from that is to increase pan capacity for better feed in unusual attitudes.
Since you are sticking with the original stock pistons, re-ring with iron (not molly) and put in an Engle 5052-H cam with new springs and lifters and be done with it.
If you are not going to have the crank re-ground or polished, at least check journal size to see if going to .001 oversize bearings would be of benefit. Don't rule out regrinding the crank if it is way out of round or worn below spec - loose bearings is the first thing to cause low oil pressure. ACL makes full groove main bearings for better rod journal oiling that may be of benefit. CAREFULL not to nick the crank during piston removal/installation.
See if you can find an .028 thick head gasket to match the .012 stock deck clearance to get a better quench.
Put it together and go.
Can't specifically help you with the 304 pressure plate question but I would guess it is not balanced properly for the 360.