1) how has your car responded to mods thus far?

If very well, you might be closer to 3.0, if not so much, closer to 3.3, maybe even 3.4.

2) The thread explains what needs to be done quite clearly.

On the coolant: Wouldn't the TB adapater block coolant as well as the intercooler core?

Just plug the LIM and open up the port behind that end cap.