is this carrier any good??

Here's the FRPP page.
http://www.fordracingparts.com/parts/part_details.asp?PartKeyField=225
MSRP from FRPP is $299 so I think you found a good price. You will have to upgrade axles as well to do 31 spline.

Here's one with 28 spline if you want to save some money but I think this is the stocker so you prob already have this.
http://www.fordracingparts.com/parts/part_details.asp?PartKeyField=221

Personally I think it makes better sense to upgrade power, then upgrade rear, then mount the DRs cause if you upgrade the rear first you may change your plans and then end up with a built rear to put down stock HP and that is pointless IMHO.
 
Pretty much the same as you have now but being a 31 spline it allows you to run much beter axles. If you launch hard and make serious power I'd look elsewhere. I got maybe 20 passes from mine on the nitrous. Got a Detroit True Trac now:D



Jay
 
the way i would do it is go to a junkyard and get the carrier out of a wrecked f-150 with the 8.8 rear end and limited slip. a pre 02 explorer will work too. Then you need to get a traction-lok rebuild kit for around 40 bucks and the axles. This is a option if you do not want to pay those prices. Also you should weld the tourqe boxes and axle tubes too.