So tomorrow the car gets dropped off at the shop for either fixing the gasket or for Nic to build some magic, depending on his findings/recommendations.

If I go down the path of a full build here is what I'm going to aim for:

-CP Pistons 100mm which is +.5mm from OEM
-Manley H-Tuff beams
-ARP Custom 625 head studs
-ARP Custom 625 rod bolts
-ACL Race or Cosworth, main crankshaft bearings and rod bearings
-08+ STi oil pump
-Cosworth Head gaskets
-Block bored and honed to suit pistons using a torque plate
-Block decked
-Heads and block machined

Maybes:
-BC 272 direct fit cams if I can fit it in the costs.
-Blouch and Injectors if there's any kind of coin left else will leave this for a later stage.

Can someone confirm if there's any benefit in going +.5mm on the pistons or should just stick to the 99.5 stock diameter? Any advantages 100mm vs 99.5? Assuming its safe to go up .5mm on the block without sleeves

If I stick to the 99.5 diameter it should bring down the cost a little as it doesn't require a torque plate bore and hone.

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06 STi: 337hp @23psi on E85...
06 STi: 309hp @22psi on 98ron...