Tim,
You already know most of my advise:
Powder-coat and bonded body option
Have ERA install the front suspension (which, as a roller the point is moot...)
SINGLE HOOP ROLL BAR (I know... I know...)
Ford Crate 302
TKO-600 with 0.82 (I have 3.54---lots of giddyup, and good cruising speed)
ERA rear with outboard brakes
15" tires the right size are getting harder to find, Firestone Firehawks worked for me
I like the look of the bumper overriders (think that's what they call them, chrome bumpers instead of quick jacks---though, I like my quick jacks....)
You won't need an
oil cooler in CA. I'm working on a panel to close off the lower portion of the intake (splits
oil cooler inlet and radiator inlet) I'll show you what I am doing in about a week.
It's cheaper to have them do the paint with their vendor in CT. Painted roller is smart. That'll save you enough to plunk down the $2k for the TKO.
Oh, buy your TKO-600, clutch stuff from Mike Fortes. Use a Quicktime bellhousing, not the Lakewood. I can help you set up your hydraulic throwout bearing.
The most important decision, though, has already been made, and you chose well. ERA.
It's all good.
DD