Yes I did use the inline thermostat from Wilson Manifolds, pictred here. There are many detailed pictures in my gallery
The linkage from the crank to the carbs came with the setup & can be used as a sidemount or center pull. I was also warned about the sidemount so didn't even consider it. Not sure why it doesn't work though.
My cam is a Nostalgia Plus Hydraulic from Comp Cams & my heads are mostly stock 1965 with screw in studs & roller tip rockers. The MSD is stock out ot the box. I haven't changed anything yet & haven't had a need to mess with the timing yet either.
The stacks are stock also. I have some of the red caps on order for when it's not in use & I am on the lookout for some type of filter for long road trips.