head gasket and piston questions

[gsxr141]

i just picked up a rebuilt shortblock from a member in long island. it has a balanced crank, new toyota bearings and rings on stock rods and pistons. everything looks good, but i had a couple questions.
what's everyone's thoughts on having the stock pistons coated at swaintech? i don't want to get new pistons if i can avoid it, but i'd like to get around 400whp out of my setup.
i plan on using one of albert's upgraded ct26's, 560's, a standanlone, etc...
next, what's the consensus on head gasket brands and styles? i was thinking of going with a titan 1.2 mhg, but i wanted some input before i decide. price isn't the only issue here, but i don't want to spend $300 if i don't have to.
thanks in advance....

 

[D.J.T.]

Stock pistons are known to Safely withstand 500whp
As for the HG there's a sticky on that. look it up. shouldn't be hard to find

 

[gsxr141]

cool. what do you think about having the pistons coated? i can get the dome and skirts done for about $40 each.

 

[D.J.T.]

cool. what do you think about having the pistons coated? i can get the dome and skirts done for about $40 each.

I've seen other members coat their pistons. I've never personally done it. But the question would be. Why not?
Coating should help against detonation.