Doug, I agree with you. No shortage of cars who replaced the 428, usually after failures with 427s. I am running one now as well.
I have a service block that is a thick-wall 428 as well. I think what I don't like is the removal of the export brace and cutting the Panduit tie warps every time I service valves. I found about 10 of the older nylon ones that show their age. I even have a Panduit gun that pulls them tight and cuts them.
I am happy with the change thus far.
When the 427 was new, it was a hard line 6,500 rpm engine. Valve springs were the issue. The rest of the engine was good probably with Lemans rods to 8,000 or so.
The CJ was similar with maybe a 6000 rpm limit.
Today we can build a real 8,000 rpm 7.
The problem with it is it is still a high maintenance engine.
At the moment my main concentration is on the 347. It's being a PITA like the 427. I've adjusted the valves three times and it keeps twisting up the carb linkage. I thought I'd be done with this last Ausgust? Oh, great big silly boy that I am?
There is "billiance" in the concept of a 428cj street car that can be driven every day. A 427 is really a race engine and you need to own one to realize what that means.
Actually, believe it or not but my Pantera with the Webers by comparison to my two other engines is virtually maintenance free?
It's my own fault. I created this situation. I need my own pit crew and team of mechanics. I need to be like a F! driver and just jump in and drive them...and stop complaining. I can't even stand to hear myself now too. I wish I'd just shut up?