Hydraulic clutch is way more trouble free. I'm using a McLeod slip on unit with a Wilwood master cylinder, put it in years ago. Set the initial adjustment right and it self adjusts, very trouble free.

And definitely change the rear end gears. 2.80 makes for a tall first gear. It'll be easier to drive in the city and leave stop lights with more gear. If you plan on road racing, then 3.25-3.55, otherwise 3.55-3.80. If you want to drag race you can even go with 4.11's.