As soon as I find a garage to do my build, I'll follow through. Thanks again for your advice!

For thoughs wondering what I have planned, I recently realized that splitting the block halves is not that difficult. Although I'm no machinist, I can install a valvetrain, pistons, and rods (At least I think I can).

Hopefully, I can complete my project by summer and run mid to low 11's (new goal). Hopefully, I'll have some knowledge of tuning by then.

 

wow. 11's is one hell of a goal.
You're going to need proper gearing for that too!

 

I've opted with CP pistons and possibly rods and also, to follow through with the advice you gave me with the rest of the block.

For heads, I'm hoping that the 272 cams plus stage 2 will be enough to meet my needs.

Should I shot peen the valves too while I'm at it?

For the drivetrain, I'll have to wait until the end of the year to afford a 6-speed, but what about the stock WRX gearings that may pose a possible issue for the 1/4 mile. I know the gears won't last long, but is mid to low 11's impossible with its gearing?

 

Don't shot peen valves. Shot peening actually changes the size of the product a little bit. Besides, valves are already really really hard. I don't think anyone would do that....

Gear ratios... I forget.
Basically though, you want good acceleration with less gear changes. My 1/4mi times would be better if I wasn't shifting into fifth at the end. Now that I have the Hydra Nemesis EMS I can bump up my rev limit and hold fourth. I wonder what I'll run now?