Sunday 26 May 2013

Update and Engine Progress

There had been a delay in the delivery of the kit, so I took the time to do some other tasks I needed to get done not car related, well I completed them so back on to the engine...

Yesterday the head was refitted and then the rocker cover.

 ** head bolts are stretch type so should be replaced. I also upgraded to a rev3 metal head gasket, there are some hole size differences and placements of the holes regarding the water channels. Biggest change I noticed was larger and additional hole on cylinder 4 which would tie in on what I've read regarding heat temps and cylinder 4 being the hottest. **

Head bolts should be tightened in the correct order at 500kg /cm and then an additional 90 degree turn. Only 2 steps on these bolts.

So here it is;



...On to turbo and exhaust manifold!

6 comments:

  1. I am curious why you went with the MR2 build and not the RSX-S build? I too have been considering buying and building a GT4, but I dont know which would be better. Thanks James and great diary!

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  2. I choose the MR2 for two main reasons. All Donor Parts from one car, so with limited space It mean't I could strip a single car rather than try and build up my knowledge of the parts quickly. Also when using a single Donor car, the MR2 forums become useful for knowledge and parts, even when building it into the kitcar. The 2nd reason is I know the capabilities of the engine and 300BHP will run all day long on a 3S-GTE for some relatively low cost upgrades.

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  3. I have a few questions. 1) How reluctant are you about a 20 year old block, and were you planning some other things to rebuild the engine? 2) were you going to look into any aftermarket parts before putting the vehicle together (port and polish the head comes to mind) 3) what exhaust were you planning to use? 4) What suspension components were you planning on using? 5) Were you going to do any interior modifications? 6) Did you consider the GT8 LS1? Thanks and cheers.

    -Mike

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  4. The block is not a massive worry for me on these engines. This was a standard engine as well when i got it so hopefully not too stressed. I am only upgrading gaskets, water pump and relevant bits for safety, even the turbo will be standard with boost up'd. Engine wise this engine is to get through the IVA in the UK and the car on to the road. If i decide to go bigger power once the car is up and running ill rebuild an engine out of the car. I will also at that point upgrade to a rev3+ engine. Ive got BC racing coilover (RM Series) its important to note from what I can tell of the bodywork you wont be able to get to the top of the front suspension easily. So that model has the dampening adjustments at the bottom. Interior will be very basic to get through the IVA then that will be customised completely. Didnt even consider the GT8 due to the donor parts here in the UK working out alot more expensive.

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  5. That is awesome! I am strongly considering this vehicle for my 30th birthday (instead of a C7 vette) especially since they are going to add moveable windows. I wish I could be there to help, but if you need anything just ask. I live in FL and would be glad to help/support ya. I have to hurry as Canada just banned Kit cars there ;). I have never done something so huge (only swapped a turbo in a 97 Eclipse, but the idea of building your own car sounds amazing! Good luck and I will be watching over the next few months.

    -Mike

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  6. Im now 30 and dont regret it, its been an interesting project and now ive done so much prep work i look forward to the build itself. Windows dont bother me as ill have the aircon. Never done anything so huge myself either but as long as you follow your countries rules to get the car on the road I cant see any problems.

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