WOW! that looks amazing. I was starting to think about how to paint my TC and motor and Cerakote is a great idea. I did an old shotgun in it once and it has been incredibly durable. What all did you did you have done to the LQ9? I found an LQ4 with a 4L65E that I am hoping to try a swap with.
Started with a virgin bare block out of 2000's escalade. We used forged internals for the bottom end and JE Pistons. My engine builder milled the heads and increased the stock compression ratio to 11.4 I think. The cam is 225/234ish on a 112 Lobe Separation. He told me the cathedral port heads perform better with a smaller split duration. This combo should provide a decent idle and good usable power and better gas mileage.
Another question on your fuel system. Do you have any details anywhere on how you plumbed your tank? I assume you used the 340 pump that came with it and added an inline filter regulator? Did you keep all the original vent lines, charcoal canister, and vent lines in that connect at the back of the truck?
I ended up using all new fuel lines including adding a return line. I had SS hard lines in before but opted to stainless braided lines for an easier install. The lines I used are from Hotrod Fuel hose.
https://hotrodfuelhose.com/ Very reasonably priced AN fittings and PTFE hose line. The filter is located externally along the inside of my frame rail. It's a Holley filter. (not sure what part number) I didn't have a regulator on there when I was running the Holley Sniper setup but I will be using one on the return line with the new Holley Terminator Max X ECU.
Your threads have been really great to help me learn although I am just trying to get mine driveable and will not be a restoration by any means. Thanks for posting!