If you had $2K to play with...

Just in case your still watching this thread:

Bump the compression. Go to dot org to learn how to do it properly.

Get some more converter stall. 2500 is nice. That's 3000 in V8-ese.

Put 3.23's or 3.55's in the rear. At that point, unless your 7-1/4 is junk, you aren't going to hurt it.

See about getting a complete super-six setup. Automatic will need the kickdown rod and the lever on the transmission. Get everything. Lokar or similar will do in a pinch.

CJ