I am in the process of swapping out the hatch on my 93 LX and I had removed the lock/latch mechanism that is secured with 4 bolts to the underside of the hatch however I cannot locate them for the life of me now...I poked around latemodelresto, americanmuscle, cjs pony, etc. for replacement...
Nice, good start! I am getting ready to drag my 93 Reef Hatch from Massachusetts to Indiana where it will have it's own garage so I am looking to get started on things in earnest like you are.
Converting just the front to discs with the 5 lug swap is a good alternative, I was pleased with ranger rear drums and 94/95 spindles with PBR GT brakes and rotors.
Mac shorty's on my 93, were there when I bought the car and while they don't look great they seem to work and hold up just fine. I have a pypes O/R x pipe and I have been pleased with the quality, great price as well.
I'm interested in knowing what's the point of a "'built 347" with ~400rwhp if you intend on babying it all the time? If you are truly going to baby it constantly I'd not waste anymore money and toss the T5 behind it as is...