Long-off 340 build

I'm going through the exact same situation as you, but you don't mention anything about price. You say you are saving. What is that magic number that you are trying to reach?

Any specific motor ideas? Stroked? Forged internals? The cost, depending on the route you go, on a finished motor alone can surpass $5k...easily...

I thought about going the Tremec route, but decided and bought the A833. Just cheaper and can drop right in, given you already have the hump tacked in. If RPMs on the highway start bugging me, then I will buy the Passon 4spd OD gearset. And if I really want more than 4 gears, I will go with the Passon 5spd (which I think is still cheaper in the long run than doing a Tremec conversion).

Also what will be your base? If it will be an actual 71 340 car, then I would be hesitant to affect the originality of the car.