Hey there,
I am running a 30 over 500 Cadillac in a 66 F-100 pickup. I couldn't be happier with the combination. It produces 40 lbs. more torque that a 70 LS1 454/450hp at half the rpm's. This is a motor for the real world. Don't expect to take it through the traps at 7,000 rpm's. In fact it's best to keep it under 5,000. What makes the difference if you're make 550 ft. lbs. of torque @ 2800.
It is definately to your advantage to use the Edlebrock 2115 manifold. It made a lot of difference. I used a mild Comp Cam for esthetics more than anything. This is an honest 400 hp engine. If you can keep your foot out of it the mileage will be better than a lot of passenger cars. Another plus is your do not need a lot of gear. You're actually better off letting this thing grunt it out. The only difference between the 500 and the 472 is the crank and the pistons. The only way to truly tell them apart is the letter (J) on the crank casting.(don't let anyone tell you differently.) You can run the motor on 89 octane if you want with no problems. I used a 800 cfm Edelbrock carb. Make sure you dial it in. If you can use an upgraded ignition. Cubes always like some extra spark. I got an inexpensive set up through Summit that has 55,000 volts. Hope this will help.

tirekicker