I would caution you on listening to your neighbor. He obviously does not know the ford system.
DIY stealth kit from Bean or Tony would do awesome. It is $975 and yes, you have to come up with another pump. I can't say enough about big oil, even with stock injectors it made towing enjoyable. Quite a bit of money I understand but it is something to think about.
The big thing is to watch your EGT's and have fun.
Keep Strokin'