From my experience with the 7MGTE if the engine is on ok condition then do the mandatory "7mgte" things and then start modding for power.
My engine has got around 200,000kms on it and its happily pushing some decent figures. It's completly internally stock but i've done the necessary things to ensure engine life with the 7MGTE.
-Always run the red toyota coolant.
-Re-torque the head gasket to around 74ft/lbs.
-If your going to run more than about 12psi, get rid of the factory ECU.
-Check the tune of your engine at intervals after mods are performed and run a full load AF ratio of 12.5:1