Run a search on google for vinyl top dye. I got some stuff last year that made my black top look shiny and new........Still looks great. I think I paid $40 for it but is worth every penny............
Yes it is worth it. Run a search on the headswap......That will give you a parts list. Be sure and get a good service manual and use it...........You should see a 50 HP increase. Think about porting/polishing the heads before you install them.....
Not sure you need heat.....Can't you take the starter off and lay a socket on the pipe and bap it with a hammer.....That should give you the clearance you need........If its steel it will work.
I just bought a '04 F-150 with the 3 valve 5.4............Runs great. Big difference over the 2 valve.......The 3 valves upped the horsepower from 225 to 300...........
Ditto on get it welded unless you want to skrew around with FORD for the forseeable future and not have the use of the car............Probably won't cost you over $100 anyway............. :spot: