Update:

I ordered the Forward Firewall, wider F panels for wide front tires, and heavier transmission tunnel for the new shifter location from FFMetal.

On the subject of tires. I'm going with Vintagewheelsus.com Cobra 427 Halibrand style wheels (not pin drive), 17x9 fronts, 17x11 rears. These are supposed to fit the MK4. I chose Nitto 555G2 tires to fit my purposes. Everyone agrees with the rear tire size of 315/35/17. Many threads say the 275/40/17 fit the MK4 but can rub. Since I'm installing the wide F panels from FFMetal, should this combo work? I'll be using power steering and could block the rack. I wonder how much turning radius I would lose? Would I be better off doing 255/40/17 to avoid problems? Thanks