I had a Level 2 box years ago, and it didn’t feel any different than my original 50k box. The only real advantage was that the stops were set up for FR steering.
A Lares rebuild will get you there for $150 instead of whatever FF or SNG is charging now. Or go Stage III. I’ve heard both good...
See here: http://www.moparts.org/Tech/MoparAction/PumpItDown.pdf
You can buy a shim kit like this one (GM Power Steering Pump Pressure Shim Kit), or just harvest a few shims from a spare pump.
The valves can be a little tough to get apart (note the kit has a clamping tool). I just used a...
From what I remember, the Ford units do not have a provision on the case for a pinion snubber. So you’ll have to mount a snubber to the underside of the car. It won’t look stock because it isn’t. But it will work 100% fine.
No mallet! I use a fine tip red paint marker so I can see the master splines off the bench. Use some anti seize when you put the can back on and the nut will draw it down.
Direct replacement is, I believe, 67-72. I just got a Lares rebuild from Rock Auto for $150 (core charge was $250). They were the only remanufacturer that got good reviews on the boards. I sprung for a "stage 2" box years ago but wasn't that impressed - it felt the same as my 50,000 mile...
On my 73, I just used 72 bumpers and brackets front and rear. From what I remember, they bolted on with no issues. You can use 70-72 bumpers and brackets, but there are differences. Just make sure the bumpers you are using are the same years as the brackets.
The valance insert has screws on the ends but takes bolts on the back side to secure the tabs. I am trying to find the insert bolts myself. Anyone have an original they can measure?
These cars had a lot of variance built in, so it's possible that it's still ok but I'd want to get it on a frame rack to know for sure. Unless it's got frame ties, the rockers are the only thing holding it together right now.
I would have someone who knows what they are doing put that car back together. Who knows how much that body has sagged/twisted from the top getting chopped off. I believe AMD is making the inner panels that you need to join that donor roof to the rear structure. I'm not sure what the best way...