I'm not sure what the stock stall is, but I'd imagine that its probably around 2000rpm. Have you considered or already installed a higher stall converter? Some of the AODE guys may be able to help here, but I think something in the range of 2800rpm would really help get you out of the hole. Foot brake it until your right on the stall then let loose on that last amber. Your convertible is probably in the 3500# range (?) so your roll out it a little longer than with a lighter car. Try to be consistent with how far you stage into the box. Put yourself there time after time so that you can work on timing the rollout.
I'm not sure, but I don't think the track will let you go with the top down. I could be wrong about this though. But to enhance that weight transfer, get everything you can off the front end. Undo or remove the front sway bar. Go with skinnies up front if you have the money. Loose the hood blanket plus any accessories you're not too fond of.
Work both! If you concentrate solely on the HP, then you won't be able to get it too the ground. Work both at the same time and bring the combination to form together. You'll be much more satisfied with the car and investments.
------------------
Jeff Chambers
T/S #4
12.40 Seconds/109.5 MPH
http://www.kellnet.com/chambers/default.htm