First allow the comparison of pros and cons among the differing systems.  To go with a race bred bearing is pricey, with kits costing close to $500.  The bearing itself is close to 200 for a cheap one.  Also, it involves specific master cylinder applications and is mostly difficult for parts procurement short of ordering them and waiting for their arrival.

In reference to the Ford stock parts, it involves the use of a plastic mounting surface for the slave cylinder, and would involve the replacement of the input shaft bearing on the trans.  This could prove detrimental to the overall reliability of the transmission, and was not an option of choice as a result.

The third option, though frowned upon by purists, is one with sound reasoning.  The GM system used on ‘88 vintage full size trucks involved the use of an external slave cylinder, and a common master cylinder.  What this means is that with a simple bracket, fabricated and bolted to the bellhousing, and a slight extension of the clutch fork, one can install this system on any vehicle.  A couple bubble flare fittings and two flare fittings along with some brake line with a built in flex point allows the connection between slave and master cylinders, and a simple bleeding of the line produces a dramatic reduction in pedal pressure, as well as increased clearance in the engine compartment for the headers to be routed.  Thus, the primary objective is achieved, and for a grand total of roughly $120.