new to bracket racing

[Geerhead55]

I'd be concerned about tire spin. You want to make sure you'll hook up. Many pickups, especially those without positraction, will kick the tires loose even with a mildly modified engine. Get it to hook and don't worry about how slow it is, for now, you can make it faster later once you get the traction issue sorted out. Good luck,, have fun.
Danny Durham