A few questions about performance/problems

[Regao]

What a fast response to my first posting. Here a a few questions regarding my 2000 F250 7.3L manual trans
1. Programmers, What do you recommend and am I missing the boat if I don't add an aftermarket exhaust as well?
2. I've been told that if I chip I should guage as well or I am riding blind. What do you think.
3. I seem to have a hard time with first gear (not granny) no matter where I have the clutch it often grinds when I shift to first. Any thoughts?
4. I notice a tin like transmission noise in first as I let off the clutch that disappears after the clutch has been released and the rpms increase. I was told by a dealership shop that is normal. Is it?
Thanks

[pipelayerjdh]

I'm not very experienced with the 6 spd, but I would add a chip, gauges, intake, and exhaust. You would not believe the difference. You definitely need gauges with a chip.

[CUMMINS_KILLA99]

dont waste your time with a programmer get a well tuned chip and youll have way more power than any programmer. get an exhaust or just cut off the muffler and run straight pipe doesnt cost anything. next guages and air intake. that pretty much takes care of the basics. possibbly a clutch for all that new power