I would just delete the EGR; not worth jacking with.
Make sure you got non-fluid filled trans/motor mounts. You want the solid rubber ones.
I'd take apart the front cover and have it hot tanked at a machine shop; along with having the shop either rebuild the heads; and even have them cleaned up or ported while they're there. If you're having the heads even looked at...I'd put at LEAST new L76 springs on it, or LS6's. Also I would do new bronze guides and Viton or Felpro seals. Since it's out; I wouldn't hesitate to do it while you're there.