so basically forged internals bigger cams, balanced crank convert the n/a to a turbo set up and then go from there

Simply put yes.

Added bonus of using the na head is its already got top feed injs.

Also, you can unbolt the acis section of the inlet manifold and make a plenum to suit the runners. No ghey centre feed manifold. Or just run the std inlet manifold.

If the goal is 280 flywheel HP, wouldn't a gen 3 turbo halfcut be the easiest approach?
The gen3 puts out 245HP standard. Fit a larger exhaust, air filter and a bit more boost and you are past the 280HP goal.
 
Plus the whole lot will just swap straight in. You get the stronger gearbox and driveshafts and the electronics to run the whole thing. 

Goal is 280kw not hp according to first post

Post 7 he confirms 280 flywheel hp. First post must off been a typo?

for a mechanic who has done ' plenty of engine builds' he sure asks alot of questions.

Just have a look at alot of the show room thread,
I.E ROBK
MRSKYLIGHTER had a nice 300 kw sw20
BEAGLE SENIOR
B24
DASIC
MR2 QIK
theres a REAL nice blue one that has near 400 rwkw cant think of the owner but that one is a monster.

Just don't look at SUROKs
ahahahahahahahhaa

But based upon the usual hunt for power.
ECU, FUEL UPGRADE- pump FPR injectors, Turbo, cams, forgies, tune

for 280 HP:,
ecu, tune, boost.

Oh, didnt see that. For 280hp then std cams are fine. Wouldnt even worry about forged rods. Ill check but I think gen3 rods are all the same. They will take anything you throw at them.

All you need then is upgraded fuel injs ( I have some from a caldina gte which are for sale) walbro fuel pump and a fuel regulator. Thats all you'd need for 280hp.

Nathan,
something you might want to consider is buying jeremys gen 3 engine and refurbing that yourself, might work out cheaper, he is also in Melbourne which is a bonus
cheers

Gatesys SW20
for a mechanic who has done ' plenty of engine builds' he sure asks alot of questions.

Just have a look at alot of the show room thread,
I.E ROBK
MRSKYLIGHTER had a nice 300 kw sw20
BEAGLE SENIOR
B24
DASIC
MR2 QIK
theres a REAL nice blue one that has near 400 rwkw cant think of the owner but that one is a monster.

Just don't look at SUROKs
ahahahahahahahhaa

if you didnt already know, Surok bought Mr skylighters 300kw SW20.