To answer a few more questions. On Cam, the Ram air IV grind is hard to beat for the dollar. I've bought many of them from Warrior for $65 (they may have gone up a bit, not sure). Of course, check spring height and tension. You may have to change springs/height but, this will bring a lot more mid range (where you need it). this is probably the biggest bang for the buck, so to speak. like John said, use a '72 and older intake but, if you can use the '72 version, it is the only year with out EGR that fits the later heads without a heat crossover problem (if you are unable to get around the screw in stud rule, this probably won't matter but it is good to know about). On your guideplate question yes, you will need to use them with any '67 and later head for stability. Maybe a '68-70 350 small valve head would work for you, it has pressed in studs.
Since you are primarily making left turns, that will be a good thing with the Pontiac. The oil pump on a Pontiac is on the right side so, while making left turns, the oil will stay on that side of the pan. Pay attention to the bearings, you may want to think of something as far as baffling. Also, use a baffeled oil pan.
Degreeing a Pontiac cam is done with offset keys on the cam, crank or both. also, most aftermarket timing set have multiple keyways. I do not suggest advancing the cam as some would on a street car as you are not concerned with power off idle. I'd run it straight up.
definately gear the car accordingly, don't buzz it unless you carry a basket with you. Keep it under 5,500.
Steve
www.pontiacheaven.org