i'm placing OEM ITR oversized pistons in a 96 GSR. would i need to worry about valve clearance with the higher domes thus buying a thicker head gasket or is it a plug n' play kind of a deal where I can get a stock head gasket and not worry about a thing?

also, any advice as to other chores I should do to prep. the motor before putting it back in would be nice. i.e.) oil pump, water pump etc... thanks!!!!

 

If using stock gsr cams then no you don't have to worry about clearance issuses. The other "chores" depend on the mileage of the car. Timing belt and water pump replacement, but it's not that hard with the motor in the car. Clutch maybe if you need it. Depends

 

They drop in, even if you use ITR cams.

You should still clay with the gears adjusted up to extremes (usu. +10 intake /-10 exhaust cam degrees). Start with around halfway to max and then do it at a couple more intervals to see where you stand with piston-to-valve clearance.