1. The Flaming River replacement gearbox is a good one and gives like new steering performance for classic Mustangs when replaced on a car with otherwise good suspension components. What I'm saying here is everything else has to be up to snuff as well. The FR system is equivalent to the OEM factory steering box (recirculating ball) and while acceptable is not as positive and tight as modern rack and pinion steering. TCP's rack and pinion is expensive and it is an improvement over the stock reciprocating ball steering gear. Since I don't road race my car, I selected the FR gearbox over the TCP...simple economics. One is $400 the other is $2,500. I'm happy with the results.
2. One of the disadvantages of disc brakes is the high forces requirement to operate them. This requirement is mitigated by the use of vaccuum boosters. Both systems work acceptably but the power system is much more akin to modern cars in that the effort to apply the brakes is considerably reduced. Its a matter of what you want to pay for. I think the Wilwood Brake conversion kit is the best deal. It can be found for less than $500 and is a good kit. I think it requires 15" wheels and widens the track of the car about 1/2". If you're looking for a 14" system, Stainless Steel Brake Corp has one. Its a bit more like the price you quoted. While you could go with the Granada set up, its mostly home brew and you can run into more installation problems, finding good parts and making sure they're safe to use. The Granada approach is good only if you have better than average mechanical skills and have some patience. For this you save a few bucks.
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