Need opinions on my (future) setup

[99-LS1-SS]

I've got a 1972 2WD that is being restored as we speak. (Link to build)

I'm going to put a ZZ502 motor in the truck with a 4L80E transmission. I'm also going to go with a Ford 9" rear gear because I'm going to put disc brakes on the rear and it will be stronger and cheaper to build. I don't want this truck to be a race truck, I want it to be a cruising truck that will occasionally haul a 21.5' boat.

My question/dilemma is, what rear gear should I run? I'm leaning towards more of a highway gear like a 3.22 or a 3.33. My thinking is that, the 502 will have plenty of torque (567 lbs/ft advertised) to pull the boat down the highway plus give relatively decent manners and mileage (as good as it can be with a 502 ). I don't want this thing to be turning 3000K+ RPMs while driving 70 MPH down the highway. My best guess on RPMs at 70 MPH with the 3.22 is right around 2100 RPMs and with the 3.33 it is 2200 RPMs.

What do you guys think and recommend?

[99-LS1-SS]

Alright, I think I've figured out what ratio I'm going with. After discussing my situation with the builder, I think a 3.50 is a good ratio considering the cam in the 502 and the fact that I'll be towing. He was concerned that the highway gears would put the 502 in too low of a ratio for the engine to be happy.