well Mark, I think you have the right idea about moving the engine back a little. I've tried my best to keep the rad in the front but it looks like I will have to move it to the bed. grrrrr. save some cash on the side for the vette accessory drive setup. you will save IIRC 1-5/8" of room. the Camaro setup give around 9/16" room.
DAVE 96 HB 4WD 5.3L, 4L60E, NP241C SAS'd, 5.13s, ARBs, 35s and a few more things
I'll keep that in mind as I hunt parts.
I figure on having to mod the rad support, but I still need room to service accessories. Moving firewall won't be easy, but will pay off in the long run.