Torque = Driveability ? (Engine Masters LSA shootout)

I have a Howards solid roller 251/257 @.050 640/640 on a 106 installed 1* advanced in my 414" sb Truck motor. 4.56 gear with 31"tires . It has too much low end for my liking. I had to pull my son's 88 shortbed with it when his fuel pump failed. I ended up taking off in 2nd from stop signs, (727 with Reverse vb) other wise it would jerk us to death. In fact I taking off in 3rd once, and it pulled fine, but I thought it may be abusing the 8'' converter.