You really shouldn't be turning 2900-300 with a 2.83-ish rear gear. I have 3.07's in the rear end of my '69 GMC, and I turn about 2300 when going 60-65.
Granted, I have 235/75 tires and a 307 sbc.
Just wondering, do you have a tach, or are you just going by your ear? These engines sound like they're wound tight when they're really not - nature of the beast I suppose.
So, to answer your ques., taller tires in the back, so you go further with each rotation so to speak.
I personally would check your tire size and confirm your rear gears. After that, check a calculator online for rpm's and rear gears. You can post them on here, and I'm sure someone will dig around and find it for you as well.
Pick up a cheap sunpro tach, and see for sure what kinda R's you're turning.
As far as increasing the redline, you're running out fo breath right now above 3500 rpms. A single barrel carb, 2 inch exhaust outlet, and damn near smooth cam? Yeah, it's trying at higher rpm's - but really, it needs some more flow in and out, along with a bumpstick to get it all in and out, ya dig? That'll raise your redline, or atleast give you power into the upper rpm range.
Others will chime in, but for the time being, you get the rantings of a deranged college student who is running on no sleep thanks to the finals count down. enjoy!
-Sam.
