Trying to keep my thread alive. Here are a few updates.
Tires: a friend is going to sell me a set of BFG KM2 in 255/85/16. My wheels are 16x6.5 so I'm kinda limited on choices. This seems to be a popular skinny/tall tire and it comes in an E load which is a plus for me.
Gauges: Just couldn't get comfortable with the stock gauges. They read normal but didn't really tell me anything. I installed electric Water Temp and Oil Pressure gauges in some blank spots on the lower dash. Water temp was easy, oil pressure was tough because the stock sending unit is on the top of the block against the firewall. All wired up and they work fine for my purposes.
Tuning: still playing with the timing. I have to keep adjusting it as I replace sensors, leaky vacuum lines and exhaust leaks. Just when I'm convinced I have sorted it out I hear a hissing noise from another corner!!
Overall: Very happy with the build. As I adjust fitment and tweak little things it is becoming more enjoyable to bounce around in.
My full time shotgun partner agrees. Have a great week!