Next steps for the 63?

[Asshat]

Been thinking about what to do next with the truck. There’s two areas that need work, the engine/trans & the rear axle. I already have disc brakes and power steering in front.

Rear axle - currently 8 lug, 14 bolt, 4:10 gears

Option 1
Convert to disc brakes & change gearing to 3:42

Option 2
Replace entire rear end with one that has disc brakes and taller gear, if I can find one that is 8 lug and 3:42 gears.



Drivetrain - currently 6 cyl 292, 5 speed T5

Option 1
4bbl intake, Rochester carb; Cam; Exhaust header

Option 2
V8 + convert to automatic, column shift

Option 3
V6 305E & keep 5 speed

What do you guys think, am I out of my mind?
I like the idea of a good sounding V8, and I know it’s going to cost a bunch. I am just not happy with the straight 6, it’s such a pig, and it sounds like a mail truck.
As far as the rear end, I could convert to disc brakes and get a taller gear but it will cost about $1000. Probably cheaper to buy a rear axle from another vehicle.