Hey kanders, sorry I didn't notice your reply to my post. A GOOD 23 spline will do well behind a motor up to about 450-500 hp on the street. It will need constant attention however, and if it goes it will likely be catastrophic. A good 18 spline will do OK with a good bit more, but it will need constant attention as well. If you are going to drive the car on the street, swapping out your 23 spline gearset for an 18 spline Liberty set will make driving rather unenjoyable on the street, so I'd opt for an auto. A small block 727 won't be too hard to find, by friend put one, (727) from a '73 van in his 4-speed barracuda, and it is a great tranny. If you want any auto advice, I'm NOT your man. I've never owned an auto in my life...nearly 35 years of driving manual trucks, cars, even lawnmowers. :-D