[Jeff Lee]

Gearing would no doubt help. Remember, this is a dual purpose car so gearing for optimum ET may not be a consideration. But the car presently goes 133 MPH which really should produce an ET of around 9.80, not 10.45. I can see the clutch work getting it down there but not even close with gearing. Getting an 1800# PP to work on a stocker that is probably on a 20% to 25% heavier vehicle which most likely has optimal gearing must also be taken in consideration when making comparisons.
My guess is 5000 RPM launches are employed as that is all it will take as far as traction goes. Right L79? If so, that's because there is too much clutch. If it will take a higher launch then by all means give it a whirl.