gathering parts 4th over ?

I don't know the exact ratio steps of the gears in my cast iron 833-OD. My 440 is rather stout and rear axle is 3.91, Hayes competition clutch and p. plate and stock 11" flywheel. In my street-driven 69 Barracuda, first gear is not really even needed except starting out on a VERY steep incline. As far as the sound leaving a light.. it's not really an issue for me.. maybe the guy trailing 5 car lengths behind me cares, but I do love the sound of only 2000 rpm on the freeway! The OD version of the "Rock-Crusher" 833, is a tad weaker than the standard 4-speed due to a slightly smaller internal shaft but still a very "beefy" trans. Unless you are "side-slipping" the clutch pedal, (ala Ronnie Sox), it should hold up fine behind a 360. Go for it!