Thanks for the responses...
I originally wanted to do everything myself to not only learn more about the process and my car, but I thought it would take my mind off other issues in my life. As it turns out, those other issues are preventing me from doing the mods. myself.
So, since I already planned on them.... I figured I might as well get someone else to do them or they'll never get done.
In response to billyvette:
No, I havent purchased anything, but I have over 14 months of research and a massive spreadsheet detailing vendor price comparisions.
The tranny question is an easy one. Numerous folks have done this already. The ROD 6 speed itself is approx 3K (Summit price) .
Vette Brakes is my suspension of choice . Everyone I know swears by them. They are a sponsor of another forum where they always provide a 10% discount off there catalog for the other forum members. I'll provide details if you want..just let me know.
As for the engine and misc parts..... I was set on a ZZ4 and boosting hp later, but I know someone who is bulding a 383 stroker that could bring the price of this project down significantly if I purchase and use that.
Misc parts need... use either hawaii racing or summit or jegs or ebay for that matter... not one of them is cheaper for everything. Gonna have to mix/match vendors as usual.
There are other details, for example...will everything fit under the hood when complete?.. I know I want to keep my stock SB 69 hood so I'll need a one off on my set up due to height constraints....
As for the hrs, I now have heard from friends and folks online ranges from 32- 55 hrs labor needed. At $60/hr, I think I should budget at least 3K for assistance.
3k would buy a lot of tools..... It's hard not to think I'm just throwing that cash away when I know if I had time I could do the work and enjoy it...
The trade off's I guess for wanting to have a fun driver...