Hi,
I didn't use a ford engine so I can't respond to some of your other questions but I used stainless steel flexible hoses. They are expensive but that was my only option. They also look cool.
One brand is called coolflex. I used flexible hoses from Summit racing instead of the coolflex hoses. It cost almost $200 for the upper and lower hoses.
I am almost embarrassed to have paid that much but you only live once.
You can see the hoses at
www.coolflex.com or
www.summitracing.com
They also have the added benefit of head dissipation. Don't know if it really makes a difference.
Good Luck
Jim