Thanks all,
I'm finally getting the car back up in the air tomorrow at my store to get some stampings off the block, trans, and rear.
I'm pretty sure it's a 940 trans with a standard, plain-jane rear end.
I intend on finding a 727 trans (forgive me if my numbers are a digit-or-two off) but I don't really want to "beef it up." I work with a mopar nut - he started talking about honing out the trans to compensate for a larger, stronger planetary set, etc. I don't really think I want to get that involved. I'll definitely need to replace the rear end with someone a little bulkier and with some sort of locking action.
My coworker suggest a big-block because of the torque advantage, and because of their reduced stroke, allowing faster spin-up. Plus I can probably get the same amount of power from a modestly built 383 as I can from a heavily built 340.
I think I'm going to set my goals at about 400hp for now, and less than $5,000 for the engine. (I'm going to aim for $4,000) I can't begin to guestimate a cost for the transmission - I have experience in rebuilding transmissions, but not "modifying" them (as mentioned above.) So maybe I can find a used 727 that then I can rebuild on my leisure with a good set of aftermarket, possibly stronger parts. As far as the rear end, my coworker warned me to expect prices exceeding $4,000 for something from a reputable, national provider (names of popular companies are currently eluding me...)
Plus I seem to find 383's everywhere... They don't seem to be as popular as 340's, which can make prices a little cheaper if nothing else.
Keep the advice coming - I'm absorbing every bit. Thanks again.
Jeff