Some updates:
New pics on link in first post
Filled extra holes in firewall
Coated firewall with heat/sound barrier. I used a product from Second Skin Audo, called Firewall. THis stuff is like toothpaste, and I applied it 1/4"-3/8" thick. It is a ceramic based heat and sound barrier, which i then painted black and applied a closed cell sound barrier on top of it.
Re-installed the wiring harness, and let me tell you, it is so much easier to work under there with just a 1" round bundle of wires instead of them being loose and unorganized.
Re-installed the dashboard, i also applied the closed cell foam barrier to the ducktwork, heater box, front upper speaker panel, and backside of the dashboard. This should substantially reduce engine and blower noise in the cabin.
Painted firewall and front frame horns gloss black, before it was a semi-gloss with just POR-15.
De-greased, sandblasted and painted engine. Most of this is done now, just have a few brackets, pulleys and stuff to paint. It should be back in the car in 2 weeks. I am waiting until after the 1st to order the rest of the gaskets and stuff i need to finish assembly.
OH, and i bought a 10" 3200 stall Fuddle converter, that should help it out a little bit. Stocker is 13.5", 1800 stall and weighs in at 71lbs. New one is 36lbs. Nice little reduction in rotating weight i would say. Hopefully i can get into the 10s on pump gas and street tires now
Gary