The RR plates would certainly work. No question in my mind. The added runner length won't hurt power much if at all.
It would be much easier and cheaper to just get a deeper dish in the pistons.. like 23cc instead of 18. Shortening the rod would be a way to increase displacement but that would probably also yank the piston skirt right out of the bore and you'll hate that.
You can run 15psi on 8.5:1 all you want.. you just have to build the rest of the motor to handle it. Lots of lightning guys run upwards of 20psi on 8.5:1 though engine life is shortened somewhat, it'll still run. Another downside to shorter rods is that the piston would not be able to force all the exhaust gasses out of the cylinder efficiently and you'd end up with seriously comprimised power production due to the fouled air charge (that'll also lower temeratures which is actually good for the motor to a point).
All in all, not the way to go. For lower compression, just get a deeper dish, or stay at 8.5 cuz that's all you'll need.
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