Low 17s might be wishful thinking with the 3.0 since mine couldn't even go quicker than a 19.0 up here at altitude but I do have a heavier D load rated Nittos and power braking it at 2200rpm just caused it to bog so with a little better driving I might have shaved a few more tenths off my 1/4.
Stock 3rd gens run low 17s from the factory but your's is a little lighter and if you have a manual that will help a lot.

 

Exactly!! a "slightly modified" 4.3l syclone ran a 9.0 @ 151 mph.

http://www.dochoover.com/albums/videos/aba.avi

I think i could have taken him with my 3.0 if i got the launch right!!

 

you are right, it may be wishful thinking, but im doing every mod in the book on the top end shy of using 24v heads. Cams, bigger intake and exhaust ports, PNP, and poor boy headers. If I can get equal to a 5vzfe ill be happy. But if I can get equal to a stock 4.3L ill be ecstatic....but this all assumes I can get it running! lol

 

I would think with those mods you'd easily get the horsepower of 4.3l. Mine's only advertised at 180 at the crank. the torque may be tougher though, going from 180 to 245 ft/lbs is a big jump. looking forward to seeing how it turns out!