[FWB]

ernie, i went thru the same thing couple years ago, i'm still tweeking it.
what i have done to launch so far....

mickey thompson drag radials, running 13 psi and do a good burnout first.
added morosso purple coil springs in the rear, i still run street shocks.
i run an automatic with manual valve body, i cannot jack the converter (3500 stall) leave the light like your pulling out in traffic when i'm rolling then whack it, my lights suck but my et is nice. keep timing back it will help with the tire spin, you won't loose enough power to make a difference.
i think a progressive linkage may help you, the short wheel base and the weight is the problem, its hard to transfer witha short wheel base without the suspension to go with it.

i remember the first launch i tried, jacked converter to 3 grand and let go, i did 3 180's and finally got out of it to save the car. i weigh in at 3200 lbs and still feel like i'm on ice. my next step is an adjustable rear shock to dial in street and dragstrip. i need to get her to squat more, then i will have to keep the front end down......