OK so im going to start getting back on track with my build but just before i start i have a few more questions.

I was leaning towards sending the engine out for the full rebuild but im thinking i want to do it myself because im bored. The block would be sent of for the machine work such as boring, milling and installing the cam bearings.

I have been reading lots of other posts and web pages about rebuilding engines and not too many mention anything about checking the con rods for straightness as described in the original manual. Why does it seem that this step is almost always non existent in rebuilds?