The stock 10 bolt rear ends will take a surprising amount of abuse. Of course, lots more torque might do it in. If funds are limited, I would pass on the rear end for now, but figure on replacing it sometime with something heavier. I agree, 3:73 gears are good for the street/strip. I run them in my Chevelle, not to bad on the street with a TH400. On the cam, dont go overboard for a rough idle, it will sound nasty, but will run like crap and you'll be dissapointed. Duration mentioned above is about right, or advertised dur. from 215 to maybe 230 or so. If you want a lumpier idle, get the LSA (lobe seperation angle) at 108 or 107 degrees instead of the normal 112 or 110. But, talk with the cam tech guys about what you have first. If it's a stock block, your comp. ration is going to be wayyyyyy low, and a big cam on top of that will kill you, you wont be happy. Any of the cam company's are good, I prefer Howard's cams in Wisconsin...good, personal customer service. Good luck.