I think the bottom end could handle it. However, I am not sure that you understand how hard it would be for you to replace that head gasket. It would take a long time, and a little money. Would it work, yes. Do you want to, no. The few horses that you would gain could be gained on a dyno, or with some bolt ons. Don't fool with a good thing, experiment on a shitty engine. Just my opinion.