[wanyes]

"I am using a 3.07 differential with a Richmond Gear 5-speed (standard 1st gear) and a 428 FE.

The 3.07 is more of a highway gear ( you must get great milage ) Tha's why your first gear is not acting "normal". If you are going to Race or lite up the tires for those days you showing off start out in 2nd and rev. However if you want more performace out of the bottom end you'll have to change your rear to something like 3.70's. Most 3.07 were used for getting gas milage in 6/4 cyl. cars not burning off the line
By the way, If your going to Dump your clutch above the 3,000 RPM
for 2nd shift lainches . Do not be surprised by the rear end exploding...It
cant' handle the tor.