Bob, glad to see another old fart join....
I'm on my third fox vert. You have some decent first mods and a nice clean foundation. Couple of observations.
Replace the 160 thermostat with the stock 192. Contrary to internet myth, the lower stat does not help with cooling. It simply opens the stat at a lower temp and actualy will result in lower mpg, worse performance, and more wear on the motor. Ford engineers put a 192 stat in for a reason.
I'd replace the stock alternator with a 130 amp 3g or 6g one. Not only will that allow you to upgrade your stereo or add things llike an E fan, it will also get rid of the stock fire hazard power wires for the stock 2g.
If you remove the stock car pipe, you may get extra exhaust smell. Know that their is not much to be gained by removing a functioning cat pipe. Now I have removed them on every fox body I've owned, but in Florida there is no smog check and my cars are not stockish or DD.
Welcome and hope you stay a while.
Thanks for your ideas and I'm sure I will stay a while. As far as the alternator i like that and have been considering an electric fan. I plan on using a good catted h or x pipe like BBK or MAC. and then Flowmasters all the way back. The 160 thermostat I have to say I'm not sure. I understand Ford engineers put in 192, but they also put in 2.73 gears! No disrepect to the engineers I'm just saying they have corporate rules. I had a 160 stat in my 89 LX and never had a problem, and this 88 seems to run great with it. Not driven in winter so no problem with heat. I know what you are saying, but you know the term "Factory Freaks" maybe mine have been like that with 160 stats.