Thanks for the reply. Hoping some others will chime in with their experiences as well.
Btw, I took a look at your build thread . . . impressive to say the least. I don't think I would have the patience to do all of that, nor the energy. But kudos to you.
On my "list" (this mythical list in my head about where I want to take my 2002 Silver Protege ES in terms of mods) are many of the things you've already done. Namely, in terms of sequence of events: Stoptechs go on next week (had a new set of rear calipers power coated to match . . . they'll go on at the same time), as well as a Corksport front and rear set of strut tower bars (had the ends power coated red . . . as that's my accent color of choice), new front and rear wheel bearings/hubs, a new billet battery tray for my red top Optima battery, a red wire NRG grounding kit (trying to get rid of that annoying engine wine in my recently installed Avic Z-120BT) and some Momo pedals to match my Momo shifter and ebrake handle.
Next up is a HID project retrofit, then a new exhaust (probably 3" based on your feedback and hopefully others). And then it's probably time to move on to my transmission. My transmission is probably getting a little "long in the tooth" anyway (165k+ miles), so a new clutch, flywheel, a Quiafe LSD, and new half-shafts . . . may also go the 3rd-5th gear heavy duty route, but don't know. And then . . . the engine. Probably just buy a built one from SpeedCircuit as well as their new turbo kit and BAM! I'm "done" . . . The good news is that everything up to and including the transmission should be done by March/April. Motor + turbo will likely take until next year. I've toyed with the idea of a c/f hood (and I like the way yours looks) but this car will likely be (eventually) handed down to my niece, and I don't want to do ANYTHING to potentially compromise the structural integrity or safety of the vehicle. And like it or not, a c/f isn't likely crash tested or approved.
Anyway, your build is very nice and inspirational. Can't wait to see your dyno numbers. Personally I'm shooting for a more modest 325-350 whp, not your 400+.