So much to deal with. I need a shop around the corner that has done a couple. Mike, I have a high mount PS pump. Really prefer to stay 727 auto. I do love manuals with that granny gear, but my left leg gets tired quick and I want to drive it a lot.

I read I'll need truck oil pan for sure.

I really don't want to lift the truck anymore than stock (it does have bigger tires), but I did buy the "add-a-leaf" as recommended on another thread to level front with rear (https://www.offroaddesign.com/1-zero-rate-add-a-leaf-kit-2-1-2-wide.html) so maybe that's enough for booster clearance. I want stock valve covers.

I'm taking notes. I'm vacillating between built small block and the cubes of a big block with all the necessary mods/swaps. As written before, I really think I would need to buy a crate engine. I'll have enough to deal with just with peripherals.