Well, you may be behind in your updates, but that's not a shabby one as updates go! Really exciting picking up the engine, and it's a really clean layout. Nice choice in components and builder.

On the clutch, my kit got caught in the move from the initial cable clutch design for the MK4 (wasn't a winner) and the present one, and that meant I had to line up and drill my own hole for the clutch spacer in the front of the footbox. I took pains to line this up precisely so that the clutch cable cleanly entered the slot in the clutch quadrant. This may be aligned well by default but do whatever you need to to ensure that that alignment is spot on. Otherwise the cable will wear against the sides of the slot.

For cable routing, you're going to want to do what you can to get the cable routed as far from the headers as possible, to protect the cable housing from heat. I was able like many others to get it around in front (and underneath) of the DS motor mount. It rests against the oil filter in that spot, but is well away from the heat. With your SBF-based block you will likely be able to do the same thing.

And, pretty sure no one's going to pick on your welding. This forum appreciates those who try, period. Have fun and thanks for the update!