Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Modifications Duratec Performance Next Step?

I ok, I seemed to be confussed and concerned on my next step. I have read about a better MAF and the bigger throttle body or the computer chip upgrade.
I have a 98 Mercury Mystique. Auto tranny
2.5 Duratec . KKM air filter. SHO Y pipe and Dynomax Muffler.
SO what should I do next? and WHY?

Superchip.
Because it raised & firms up the ATX shift points. That alone is worth it! Also it tweaks the spark curve, fuel enrichment, IMRC point, redline, and speed limiter as well.

Custom mandrel single exhaust is a big plus - I would go 2.5"

Larger MAF - probably not worth it without more extensive intake & exhaust mods.

Larger TB - see above

Ok, I have the exhaust at 2.5" already. Now I have been reading and it seems that the computer chips are a kinda hit or miss area. Seems like you would want that last to go with the other mods
Are you talking about a custom or right off the shelf? I thought they designed the off the shelf chips for a stock set up. And if modified your set up it could throw their calibrations off. They are expecting less air flow with the stock air box and so much back press with a stock exhaust? Is this incorrect? I bought a SuperChip for my Totoyta Supra, but it was also Turbocharged and the chip was very expandable.
Will the Superchip "grow " with other mods or will it need to be sent back for an upgrade or custom program?
Will all the SVT 2.5 stuff fit on my 98 Duratec? As long as I stay with 98? Like throttle body? Upper and Lower Intakes? Or am I almost out of bolt on goodies?