For the 3.8l you have 3 options with shorty headers:

1) Pacesetter headers- good headers, bad gaskets, problem can be solved with gaskets from Lance at Abbott Racing Heads. 90% of people with the 3.8l go with these.
2) RKSport- Various known issues with these headers.
3) Clear Image Automotive- More expensive than the two above, but people report a slight HP gain than Pacesetters or RKSport headers.

Now, there's also now the option of Longtube headers by Force Fed Fabrications. You will need a custom y-pipe to be fabbed up by an exhaust shop if you want to connect it to your current catback. Also you will need to run 93 octane. Cost of these are $750. However, the first batch is just now being released to the public and will be shipped out in I believe 9 weeks from now. Current belief is that with these and full bolt ons you'd be putting 220 HP at the wheels. But as I said, just a belief, once the first batch is out and people have the chance to dyno these we'll see if that belief runs true.

As for installing new gears here's a how to:
Gear Swap Oh, and you can install aftermarket LSD, Zexel Torsen is a commonly used application.

Don't every worry about posting a question on here. If you were to search some of my early posts, you'll find I was probably the least knowledgable guy on here initially. Remember, none of us were born with this stuff.

Actually, there's a V6 Firebird that runs 8's. The 3800s are starting to gain some respect. It's all a matter of how much are you willing to put into the car.

YouTube - First 3.8 v6 turbo firebird in the 8's (Music sucks ass)

Duplacolor Caliper paint works well enough.

Going to tackle the calipers on my car tomorrow, and wanted to ask you a question: did you use any clear coat on the calipers and rotors?