Good post. You don't really need a lift, but it would be damn nice. Everything I've done on my car, I've done with jack stands lying on my back. I'd love^10 to have a lift, but it's more of a convenience thing than a need-to-have.
I'm getting old. I NEED a lift, lol. All my weight lifting does nothing to help me up off cold concrete.
I had to fit so many things twice, i just can't see doing it on the ground.
A good portion of my project was just an experiment. I had my theories, some of which worked out, some didn't.
Swaps are done about a dozen different ways. I chose to keep the fox dash and harness. Many choose to replace the harness and cluster, some the harness cluster and dash. That's where the real expertise comes in, you have to be able to read diagrams.
I'm lucky enough to have expert guidance, assistance and even machine shop help, and it was still a serious pain in the ass.
For the record, i did the swap for a few reasons. One of which was modern 500hp reliability. No blowing head gaskets, leaking oil or worries about aftermarket blocks.
Only thing i miss from the pushrod engine is the cam idle, which would cost me 2 grand to get, so that ain't happening.
I always went by peak hp before, now i realize low end makes a car 100% easier to drive in traffic. It's fun too, albeit a little dangerous.
As for a daily driver? I'd say no f'en way. No traction control or anti to save you. It's hard enough to keep straight below 40mph on dry pavement, so wet....