i'm using a motor plate so clearance should be ok. some say to change up to external pick up, others have used 3/8 or 1/2 pick up and hv pump with good results.
i failed to get the pick up hole enlarged while at the machine shop, and short block is now assembled. that was why i was going to look at a external pick up. i'll look at the pump and do any necessary blending and run with the 3/8 pick up and 7 quart pan. cheers