Ray, thanks for the excellent explanation. When I get my new engine installed and running I will have a better feel for how she runs and shifts. I went from a 1965 327 to a 1985 350 and a different intake manifold. Right now I'm struggling with getting the old alternator bracketry to work. The new intake manifold sits higher and the alternator has very limited clearance. Also the new manifold has lots more unused drilled and tapped holes that will need to be plugged. I will surely have more questions as my engine swap progresses (or digresses). Don