torque converter question

To undogify your combo, your slanty needs;
a true 2800TC and
an Effective starter gear of at least 9.5/1 corrected to a 24" tire. and
at the very least ,145 psi cranking cylinder pressure at whatever elevation you are at.
Do not consider the Wide-ratio 2.74-1.54-1.00 trans. Yes it will blast -off better but will lay over worse when it hits second.

With 225/75-15 tires for instance (28.3tall), you will need a starter gear of 9.5/(28.3/24 x2.45) =3.29s, rounds to 3.21. Your engine will still lay over when it hits Second Gear. The cure for that is more; or less..
More shorter tires, or more rear gear, or more cylinder pressure.
Or Less weight.
Yes the damaged ring gear on the current TC can be replaced. I knew a guy once who could weld pretty good too..... but if the engine is already out, just replace it.

A big cam or low cylinder pressure will want a bigger number second gear, especially with tall tires.