The two options I considered were the FRPP pump (50 bucks but backordered at the time) or a Stewart (75 bucks, in stock). Both are quality pieces and I went with the Stewart.
I dont think the parts store stuff is any cheaper (not here anyhow) than the Ford pump, so as long as time is not of the essence, I'd go that route for the money.
The stock replacements are really good and I'm pretty sure the FRPP is just a stcoker not a highflow if memory serve me correctly. I would/am going with the Steward since it's the only high flow pump for our cars (non elec) but like mentioned not really needed.
I run a flow kooler on mine, it was a little more hassle than a stock one to insall since it took about three gaskets underneath for clearance. I've had no issues with it after about 2 years, but I can't say whether it made a difference since I changed the radiator, thermostat, and hoses at the same time.