Okay, in researching my 1974 rebuild (see prior topic), I was finally able to find out that basically the L48 block was a 2-bolt main, which tells me I won't be able to take it much over 400hp unless I feel like cracking the block.  So looking into 4-bolt main blocks, I've stumbled across a very good deal on a 1990 L98 motor.  Now my question is, is the deck tall enough to allow for a 3.875" crank to make 396 (okay, 395.4) cu in?  Or is the deck too short and the pistons would get pushed past the deck?  If it's too much, I'll go with the 383 rebuild, but as they say, there's no replacement for displacement, so i'd prefer the 396 over the 383 if it's feasible.  I'm aware I would have to have the block machined to fit a 3.875" crank anyway, but my main concern is whether or not the pistons will remain in the sleeves or if that much stroke would exceed the deck height.  If anyone knows the answer, please let me know!  

The small difference in cubes between the 383 and 396 isn't worth the extra cost involved.

The L98 deck height is the same as the L48.

You can go over 400 HP with a two-bolt main block. It really depends on how high RPM wise you're gonna turn the motor. If you're worried about the strength of a two-bolt bottom end, install main studs and a girdle for extra strength.