I blew two head gaskets on a 260hp engine before I got arp studs and MLS gasket.
I have 2g pistons and would only recommend them if:
1- you have good logging capability
2- you have fuel control
3- timing control or extra detonation control ie front mount, water inject.
with out 1 and 2 you may regret the swap. My 2g pistons forced me to purchase link before I really needed it.
As far as the build goes. If you've got a second car and don't mind pulling your engine any time you need to, you can really get away with what ever works for the moment. But if this is a major project for you, I'd hate to see someone spending a week end, a hole week, some people even a few months working on their car; just to half ass it..?
In the past two years I've :
pulled my head (head gasket)
pulled everything (full rebuild)
pulled everything again (engine swap to awd)
And now im starting a tranny rebuild.
Some times the cash will make your mind for you
I want you to have this " . " It took me a second, but I get it now... If I were you, I'd just go with stock Mitsubishi replacement rings.