Gear Ratios:
The Close Ratio top loader was 2.32 first gear with a 3.31 rear gear. That was 65 mph in first, still plenty wheel spin BUT it could be more easily controlled than now.
The TKO-600 has 2.87 (I think thats it) and the 3.31. Wheel spin is hard to control even with the slicks. Wow, I can't imagine having one of those 5 speeds with the 3 something first gear. That would be virtually worthless and impossible to control wheel spin.
Starting in 2nd has been shown, for some folks around here, to make for a better ET, but it's also very hard on the clutch. So that is not a viable option for me, the occasional not really serious drag racer.
Bobcowan is right about the suspension, I've spent a lot of time getting it right for road racing and don't want to change it now!
Of course "we" are always traction challenged, but with the new lower 1st and 2nd gear ratio's I'm just now learning what most folks have always known. It's tough to hook up! 1st gear ratio on a wide ratio top loader is nearly the same as the road racing TKO like the one I have now. So, 90% of you guys already know this stuff. I'm the "newbie".
I don't think many of us are running a Close Ratio with a 3.31 rear gear. In general I find manufacturers don't recommend that setup. BUT, I'm kind of re-thinking that now, it's not a bad over all choice. Counter intuitive though, drag racers are always looking for a lower gear. 4.11 and such. The 289 Drag Cobras were running something like 5.13's, extremely low. So, lower ratio's like I have now, would seem to be moving in the right direction, but there's more to it than just gear ratio's obviously.
My dual carbs are setup for 1 to 1 ratio, not progressive. A change there, to progressive type linkage, might be a good call. Like that "cam" thing for more pedal travel, less carb. The "light beer" approach.