Thanks Chris.
My wife forgot that our MPG's we measured are not accurate because of the difference in tire size, the same way the speedometer is off. The odometer is reporting as though we traveld a shorter distance. The car was telling us we where getting 10MPG but I believe that number to be closer to 14~15 MPG.
We haven't had problems with the transmission staying locked up, but that could have a lot to do with our rebuild. She stayed locked at 70mph during our trip with a heavy roof rack. The rack does seem to effect these vehicles to some degree.
I'm on the hunt for an SS rear end. The question right now is which lower gear set will be the best combo for long haul road trips and off road. I need something decent for FL to Utah and not just decent for hill climbs over rocks.

Once lifted 03 Trailblazer on 35's, gave it up to travel the USA with my family.