Beginning Restoration (Engine, Trans, Additional...)

[Jahloha]

Hey Team:

I am beginning my prep work for my restoration and although mechanically astute, I have never implemented these skills in an engine and transmission. I plan on this truck becoming my daily driver, mostly highway or driving 8 miles down a two lane road.

I do the occasional tow with my trailer (3-5K lbs) and do not have a lead foot, but care about the ability to merge onto a freeway quick if needs be.

I have been reading a ton of posts and articles on which engine/trans combo to go with and have narrowed it to a GMPP 350/290HP with the 700R4. Not sure of gear ratio yet...

Not sure if it matters regarding what trans to put in, but I am a larger guy, over 6'4'' and 300 lbs, so I am also considering putting in some HD coils to raise the truck just a little bit and maybe taller then normal tires.

While I have the engine and trans pulled out, what are some other things I should consider doing? I have read about fuel injection, I do care about MPG, should this be a must install?

I have done a ton of reading prior to posting this, so please be understanding to my newness...