Stroker!?

AdamR said
The 408 will make tons of torque. The 360 can run well also.

I think the plan to start with the rear and transmission are good ones. 4.10s and a good converter will wake it up. I have a real nice shifter if your interested.
Ive seen your shifter and ive been eyeing it up already LOL! I gotta form my plan of attack and i can start buying parts!