Wilnutt, it does sound like there`s a lack of continuity in your build. Your cam is like a stock eliminator cam or for a much wilder engine. Depending on what you want to do with your car will determine where you should go with it. If you want to spend a lot of time at WOT you will assuredly need more gear, more stall in your converter, and more carburetor for everything to sync up and get the most out of your engines combo. If you want to street ride mostly then just a slightly larger carb (say 650 cfm) and a smaller cam, like the Comp 268 would put the car in a lower power band and match your gear and converter better. Your engine sounds like it has great potential, just don`t take it back to that mechanic. 20K for what he hasn`t done is way too much. See if you can find a reputable mechanic who has had experience with older Mopars. When you find someone who is competent and conscientious ,stick with him.