IMO if you can run methanol then I would definately do it!!! Again I think your biggest enemy will be heat. I agree for quick acceleration a lighter flywheel will work out the best. However smaller bore engines are not as efficient as larger bore engines, I don't mean fuel efficient I mean volumetric efficiency, how well the cylinder gets filled with the air and fuel on the intake stroke. The air fuel charge will be cool as it enters the engine and will not gain temperature until the compression stroke. It is not uncommon to have ice form on the intake manifold of a super stock 50 while it is going down the track, so I know the air fuel charge is not heating up. The port support plate that some manufacturers sell is good for classes that you cannot weld up the port or have visible exterior welding. If you put a port support on the side of the block then you must machine that side of the block true, and if you are planning on using a Kohler type carb. that has had the backside bored really big, then you place that carb right on the port support plate then you increase your risk of breaking fhe flange of your carb. due to the fact that you are trying to seal up 2 surfaces with the carb. the and there is more risk of distorting the mating surfaces when trying to tighten the carb. bolts tight enough to seal up both surfaces. If you are using a intake manifold between then you will not have to worry about the carb. flange as much. But if you can weld up the port flange on the topside properly then you will not need any port support plate. I have heard of individuals trying the reverse port on K series engines years ago, everyone likes the port up angle of the exhaust port but what kills it is the side entry angle, the air fuel charge has to change directions right at the valve seat to enter the cylinder which slows down the charge. Aluminum pan, lighter flywheels are definately a good place to start in my opinion. And have the entire rotating assembly balanced, not just the internals.