[thor]

Just tossing out a different idea - How about lower gear set for the TH400? Many manufacturers make a 2.75 first gear and 1.57 second gear for the TH400, as well as the 4L80e. This could get your mass moving better. But, if it's cruising speed your after, then I agree, you need a heart transplant.

A stroker motor would be the cheapest and easiest route since you already have a small block in place. However, big block will give more grunt. A 454 would probably be the next "cheaper" step, but like stated above, it would be easiest to find a donor vehicle for all the parts you don't think of until things don't line up quite right. But to tempt you even further, perhaps an 8.1L would be fun. A 496 with fuel injection from the factory. But I think we've blown the budget by now. So back to the 383.

Just my .02