Ted please take a look at this setup - 3.44 R&P 1st 3.44, 2nd 2.17, 3rd 1.48, 4th 1.09, 5th .89
The rpm drops are correct and the spacing is as good as it gets for a 5 sp 2 liter plus size engine. Stick with the 3.44 ring and pinion - don't cheap it out at this point.
Please please please get rid of that 3.78 1st! It is obsolete with a larger engine.
Use this to get a visual of your shifts. You can play it out in your head:
https://weddleindustries.com/gear-calculator
I'm using 24.5 inch tires and 3700 rpm upshifts