Wow Surfguitar! I think your solution to the straight through exhaust and keeping the luggage tray is very cool. I'm inspired to do the same thing, I have the original one that I can modify, just would not have thought to do it. - Nice one. I don't think I have the skills to make it look as good as you did but I may be able to get close or better than nothing!
For the headers, I decided to do a test on the VHT paint you can buy in rattle cans, I have a kiln that can cure small parts (too small for the headers sadly) but I can get a reliable 650 'F in it no problems, so my plan is take an old part, paint it, cure it and then see how it comes out. If good i'll figure a way to do the headers, if not then they will be off to Jet for a professional job.
I'll post about how it turns out.