thanks y'all!
@3B yes brand new torque converter, i asked for as close to stock as possible. it should have 1600 stall
@roy yeah i pulled out a TH350 and the speed limit was the same
i did go ahead and pull the diff cover, they are 3.90 gears.
im with you though, i feel like i should be able to hit 60 with reasonable rpms. i know 3.90 gears are not for the highway flyers, but 45/50 is tops and i wouldnt want to drive at 50 for too long.
i will work on the engine as you and scott have suggested. the plugs and wires are a bit worn. i also picked up a vacuum gage, i should have enough line to run it into the cab with me.
thanks again y'all.