My engine is rebuilt. I do all my own rebuilds. As far as 'stock' valve train as is original from day 1, no. I feel it is foolish to spend the time and money and not replace the valves and springs. Most valves will be pitted and or the seats may be recessed due to wear and tear. the original springs don't last long with lifts over .500" therefore I install comp 995 springs which have higher spring rates and can take the longer lifts. 400 and especially 455 ci is a lot of volume to fill using streetable small duration cams. To increase the area under the curve (duration and rate the valve is open), larger lifts are beneficial. Stock valve may be reused, but check to see if they have sufficient installed height to support the cam. A typical rebuild starts around 3500 on the cheap end, so why skimp out on 400 for new valves and springs?
back to the original poster how mentioned 'stock type' valve train, which does not indicate the original 197x parts will be retain. This is where the misinterpretation occurred between Rich & I whereas Rich assumed
original 197x parts and I assumed aftermarket
stock type replacement parts. This being the case, both parties are correct in their thoughts. I agree that the cams that I mentioned will be a little tough on original 197x parts, but not aftermarket stock type parts.
Hope the information provided allows pat to make a good decision.