Urgent, need opinions on my new crate engine

[geezer#99]

I think you're going in the wrong direction with your motor choice 1972Blue.
You were worried about your choice of the 290 hp motor and now you're jumping deeper into the fire with even more motor.
You've got a big tall tire heavy truck that needs all the torque you can find. Buying more hp moves the hp/torque curve way up the ladder. Right out of your desired driving area.
It'll be a dog until it hits 3000 rpm.
You need a stock motor with some upgrades. Like this one.
http://www.summitracing.com/int/sear...g&autoview=SKU
Add a high flow performer intake, a small 600 cfm carb, a set of small tube (1 5/8") headers and you'll be far happier.
You'll set the tune on your motor and only need to look at it to check the oil.
The high horse motor will need constant attention. You'll be continuously tweaking the carb, checking the timing etc.
Forget the bling bling high horse motors, go stock.
Unless you enjoy tinkering all the time!