Since you're going to use a clutch, there is a gizmo out witch is called the door closer. It fits on the clutch rod to slow down engagement just enough to reduce breakage of componites. Wish I had the manufacturs name, but look it up on line. I will use it on my car when done.
If you dead hook with an 8-3/4, you'll be picking parts off the ground, stay away from the radials.
My 64 (auto) broke all the ring gear teeth off after 10 passes, had ladder bars, spool, strange axels and 14-32 slicks, 842 case. Out it came and Dana back in reusing the axels.