Mike,
Cross-hatching adds more surface area, so do it to all of your plates.
The deeper the grooves, the more additional area you create. Just be sure to keep it kinda smooth where the gaskets will mate.
1998 Explorer 4x4, 4.0
14 cell / 2 stack 6x9" drycell reactor 28%KOH dual EFIE, MAF enhancer, IAT & ECT controllers, 2.4 LPM @ 30 amps. 6.35 MMW http://reduceyourfuelbill.com.au/forum/index.php
Not at all. It merely adds surface area. Absolutely no ill effects.
1998 Explorer 4x4, 4.0
14 cell / 2 stack 6x9" drycell reactor 28%KOH dual EFIE, MAF enhancer, IAT & ECT controllers, 2.4 LPM @ 30 amps. 6.35 MMW http://reduceyourfuelbill.com.au/forum/index.php
Your connection is correct.
The brothers said above also, You are better off with 5N's. It is more efficent., But the voltage you consider your