first time down the track advise?

hey guys, I am seriously considering hitting up the next test and tune at my local track, even though I don't have a sure grip rear end yet

the car is a 71 duster, with a 408 small block, custom torque converter, 727, 8 3/4 rear end with 3.23 gears, and N50 tires

so, what advise can you all give me?

should I avoid the burn out box since I'm running an open rear end and regular valve body?

should I let the car shift, or ratchet it through myself?

do I wait for the green light or go on the last yellow?