The metal hoses are air hoses. The idea was to inject oxyogen into the exhaust system before you got to the cats. Good for emissions, but not really nessicary. Even my moms 4100 will pass without them. As for the "alternator looking thing" thats the pump to those hoses. You'll find it also has larger hoses that go elsewhere. If you plan to convert over to a carb, their really not nessicary. If you have TBI or the infamous GM "Feedback" carb, you will want to keep this. Otherwise, It'll constantly force the engine to run lean. As for the wire question, I would reccomend over the valve covers. That way its not such a pain to change them. As for good plugs, my standard reccomendation is bosch platnium. I have yet to see another plug that you can walk into advanced auto and get a new one No Questions Asked.