LOL,I had to dig my Dart out this year too. I have a long way to go but every journey starts with a single step right? You have started~!
Sounds like you will be doing the same things I will do. Big block is my choice too,sub frame connectors and a 6 point cage for mine. I might just tie the rockers in with torque boxes too. This would make it a parameter frame in effect. Whatcha plannin for with the chassis/suspension?