[Tongue Pirate]

I am getting closer to understanding the Toploader Transmission but I still have a few questions. I have a 5bolt bellhousing so I need an early Toploader with 28 spline, the first top bolt hole for the shift linkage needs to be 5.5" from the rear of the main case, either long or short tailshaft will work but short is prefered & so is wide ratio for my application.
I saw an HEH-D on ebay last that appeared to be within my range but it was a close ratio.
1. How will a close ratio perform on the street & what rear gear ratio would you recomend?
2. Were there any early factory units that had a short shaft, the proper bolt pattern, wide ratio & 28 spline?
3. Is it possible to change to a short tailshaft assembly?
4. What is your core charge in the event that I find a trans that will work but is in need of mods.