Would you notch a 727 bell that already has an inspection port in it?

Vans with MPFI came with 3spds. If you're so worried about cutting the hole- get one of transmissions. I'd imagine one of the 5.9 3spd vans MAY have a 727 but they may all be 904 based.

If you're rebuilding as a stroker why are you externally balancing- much less doing so on the converter? Is this a 5.7 stroker build?