[RICK LAKE]

TimSullivan Tim more important is what is the first gear ratio? The other thing is where your torque band starts. FORGET HP. You are not going to spend your time at 6,000 rpms all the time. Torque is what moves the car down the road. Ask for 550 ft of torque at 2,500 rpms. The idea is to be about 400-500 rpms into the torque band for cruising. You are building a stroker. Would recommend calling Keith Craft for a custom hydro roller in your motor. Unless you plan to race the car all the time a 6,500 rpm limit would be great and give long life to the drive train.
A 2.70's first gear and .82 overdrive would be a good combo. You don't want the motor to luggin 5th gear on the highway. 1,900 would be a min to have good power in 5th to accell to a higher speed and not have to downshift.
As for first gear I have run 3.25 and 3.00 with 3.31 gears, It's a waste of time starting out in 1st. 2nd gear is 2.45 and the car still pulls away with little effort. Have to remember you and the car weight is under 3,000 lbs. Good luck with the build. Rick L.