New Gearhead!

[double00bu]

Hi guys,I am not new to being a total gearhead but,new to the 60degree world. I have a 2000 malibu(3100) with what seems to be typical blown head gasket. I am not one to tear something appart without making it faster so,the research begins.
I am currently pulling the complete motor and,researching every possible avenue of performance.
I also have a 2000 chevy venture 3400 complete motor,with a bad rod bearing.
Any ideas you guys have would be great to hear.
I have a goal of atleast 300hp. What you think?
What do you guys think of 6'' rods from a small block chevy,cause i have some. I do know there are some piston issues there.
I love this site,its sent from hp heaven. Thanks

[ForcedFirebird]

Are you sure it's not an intake manifold gasket?

[double00bu]

i wasn't certain it was a head gasket but,started tear down this morning, confirmed front bank head gasket failure. The intake gasket had a questionable area but,clearly head gasket was bad. My girlfriend at the time was the one driving it when it happened so,intake gasket could have been the start. She drove it till it wouldn't hardly pull itself. I am sure there is more unseen damage in the form of a crack somewhere. I have not got that far yet. By the way,kick her to the curb!-lol

I want to get this car in the low 14's to high 13's N/A. What am I going to have to do?

[ForcedFirebird]

Well, the bottom end might be trashed if there's coolant in the oil and run that way.

Turbo...

I put a turbo in another member's 3400-powered Corsica and it's in the 12's

[double00bu]

I have nothing against the idea of forced induction,however on this project I would like to keep it n/a.
I am planning on going through the bottom end.