Do I need a Stall converter?

Did you ask Brian about a cam? Since he's doing the heads he'll know what size cam will best take advantage of his port work.
He was the one that recommended the cam, the pistons even though the compression is lower then the stock 10.5:1 I wanted something that will be good still on pump gas, he has used this setup before. Main reason I went with it is his experience with it. He also recommended the 2500 stall. but just weighing my options on to spend the money on one that is not much more then stock.