True you can always crank up the engine 300-400hp, But what does that do to your fuel economy? you wont be getting 18mpg anymore,.. Also everything starts to wear faster, mainly everything behind the 4bt. at thoes power levels, things tend to break and twist apart much faster.
If you can do the install yourself, it will run you somewhere around $4-$8k running stock. My set up is running about $35K, but im using all custom and built parts, more bling then was needed.
Also, whats up with all the weight issues that everyone has with engine swapps and 200lbs over stock?? .. What about the steel bumpers, duel battieries, winches, lights, compressors, etc,... that there runs over 200lbs+ and with no ill effect to the vehicle.
squeezer; Your Idea about the 6bt was the same as mine... But the at545 transmission is not going to work. I also have one, and there is no place to direct connect a transfercase. Its also taller and wider, most of them have no Park Paw, and equire the Transmission disc brake to be used for park/parking. I went with the auto 47re, cause I did not want to have to shift all the time, nor did i want to make provisions to install the clutch setup. (which also adds extra weight to the front end.) Good luck with your project. Which ever way you choose, with enough fabercation and/or money, you can make anything work.
Grease Cruiser: You have an awsome setup going. a very nice, very clean install. I think the install price is fair. what hurts is when you buy the car with the install. $20K+...

do you offer financing?
Heres my 80 with the I-6. just waiting for drive train parts and alignment to button her up . (should be done end of July)
-Ron