Welcome to the 'bolt, Hugh.
1. If reverse is left and back (next to 2nd), you have the SM-420 transmission. IMHO, it's one of the best manual gearboxes GM made.
2. Look for a casting number on the block and post it here. Most of the time you'll find it next to the distributor or just above the starter; on service replacement blocks you may have to look on the driver's side behind/below the throttle linkage.
As for items 3 & 4, I will defer to those more experienced with multi-carb setups. Has the timing/dwell been checked recently? Are the wipers still vacuum-driven; and if so, do they work?
Do we get to see pictures of your new toy?
edit: Are we shaking down the new guys for parts now? :p
