I'm looking at following much the same path that you did. I want to get it going first, then start with the upgrades and improvements. Adding power steering is part of phase 1, phase 2 is probably OBD2 and add AC.
Phase 3 is the OD trans. The Mopar RH automatics are probably the easiest way to go, but I'm not against the idea of using a GM trans or a Gear Vendor unit. I've heard about a lot of people having success with the 2004r, so it will be on my list of options. The GV unit doesn't have a very aggressive ratio and if I'm going OD, I wan't some serious OD. If you don't mind my asking, do you remember what the 2004r ended up costing all in?
I love that air filter housing you have. Where did you get it? I'm looking for something similar that I could plumb right into the scoops on my hood (70 Swinger - check my avatar).
Thanks for the advice and recommendations. When the time comes I'll certainly look into those guys.