Pretty sure that's called a rabbit hole. You ain't the only one doing stuff like that where you are the only one who knows about it. Unless you post it online of course.

This I actually completely understand.  I used all ARP stainless fasteners on my 331 too.  If application specific bolts weren't available I found ARP sells generic sized fasteners in packs.  The problem was that the Edlebrock intake came with cheap silver zinc plated fasteners, and I wasn't having it.  The lengths I needed were both longer and odd, so I contacted ARP to see about having some made (they can do that).  Well, I wasn't going to spend $500 on intake bolts, so I came up with a work around.  I bought some generic ARP stainless bolts in the right size and thread to where I could cut the threads off one bolt and the head off another and achieve the correct length.  I ground the sections to be welded on a taper, and used some 316L wire in my MIG to joint them.  Once cooled I ground the welds smooth and they look like they came that way (just about I didn't bother to polish the shanks you won't see anyway).  I figure the torque on these is so low there's zero danger of a failure.  

Sounds like some of the crap I do sometimes. 

Yep, let’s replace some good old Ford grade 8 studs with some welded-up grade 2 stainless…

This is what makes this hobby so much fun.

Nice work!

Been there done that and I have to say, great job.   You have some skills.