I also used a Ron Francis kit about 20 years ago and have been very happy with it, because I have made numerous changes to the layout over the years and these are easy with a front connecting fuse panel. The one regret however was mounting the fuse panel in the stock location. If I were to do it again I would mount it in the glove box opening, either right in the opening, or behind the glove box with a removable panel for access.
Being 20 years older with a bad back and knees, twisting, bending and reaching to access anything on the fuse panel in its present location is an exercise in pain and misery. It would be much more comfortable to work on while sitting on the passenger seat.
On the topic of wire terminations, I’ve read you should always use crimp connectors and never solder an automotive joint because it turns it into a solid wire which is subject to vibration cracking. Also if you don’t have excellent soldering skills and equipment, it can solidify the wire well beyond the joint as well and risks melting the insulation.
In my experience a ratcheting crimp connector is worth its weight in gold if you are doing an entire vehicle. Mine looks like this:
http://www.amazon.com/Ancor-701030-..._5?ie=UTF8&qid=1301335082&sr=8-5
