Engine rebuilds Options

[AWD DSM 1]

What are everyone’s experiences with these? I’m staring this 7-bolt in the face, knowing that the day will come only too soon that it will be ripped out and replaced with the bulletproof 6-bolt. I figure everyone else’s experiences might help me with my own indecisiveness, and it would be good reference for some of the newbies (or not so newbies).

My own experience:
91 6-bolt rebuild. Bought a top-line kit from Mach V. This included full gasket set, rings, bearings, freeze plugs, pistons, oil pump with case, all seals, belts, etc. For the most part, I was very happy with the kit. Blew the head gasket about 500 miles later, but I think that was more from me overheating the car than bad parts. Block had minimal machine work done to it, as did the head (although the 2g head was ported to match a 1g intake). Car is still in service and producing an estimated 275+/- hp. Mitsu timing belt, water pump, tensioner, and tensioner pully were all used from a prior acquisition.

What have you guys done? What wouldn’t you do again? What parts would you use only OEM Mitsubishi stuff for? Thoughts on Stainless Steel valves?

So far I’ve got a block, 9:1 JE pistons, and a 1g head that needs valves sitting in my garage.

TIA

Rob