Miatacrazy716

iTrader: (2)

Hello all I have tried searching for some of the info I am seeking but could not really find any real answers to my questions. I am building my 91 to boost around 10-12lbs. I plan on using the stock 1.6 as it runs good and compression is excellent even though it has 200,000 miles on it.

I am undecided if I need to do a head gasket or leave it alone. It is not leaking or given me any issues but I was just curious at 200,000 might be a good idea and do some head studs while I am at it as well. I was planning on doing the water pump and timing belt and tensioner and idler pulley. I figured while I was in that deep with the head off I figured I would do some port matching and maybe some port and polish but I searched on here and found mixed reviews on the porting and polishing. I read it can cause more damage then being beneficial if not familiar with it.

Also are adjustable cam gears beneficial for turbo applications or just a waste of money. I am getting ready to order some parts and want to get the most bang for my buck and stay as low budget as possible. I am not scared to spend more to make my engine more dependable. Just seeking out some knowledgeable answers from some who have been there and done that. Thanks for any advice or answers and I appreciate your time.

nitrodann

You need to read a lot more.

A quick skim of your post basically tell sme you are over thinking it.

Add an ecu, and then add some boost and have fun. the only tests for engine health you really need apart from obvious stuff like does it blow smoke or rattle is a compression and leak down test.

Dann

supercooper

If you are gonna pull the engine apart, at least throw some rods in there. lol
That way the main weakpoint is taken care of, and you have a LITTLE more room to play. Its cheap insurance.

Miatacrazy716

iTrader: (2)

Yeah no smoke and the compression test my average across all 4 cylinders was 188psi. I already have a t25 garrett from a 240 from a friend for $20 but needs a rebuild has tons of shaft play. I was just going to order my MS and get turbo components but was unsure if I needed to address anything before adding boost. Thanks for the quick response

supercooper

Well, Definitely what Dann said, But With how cheap rods are, they wouldnt be a bad idea to throw in. Especially if everything else checks out great

Miatacrazy716

iTrader: (2)

What are stock rods able to withstand. I was not going to pull the motor but if rods and bearings can be picked up for cheap and is added insurance I guess I could pull it and throw them in.

supercooper

Around 250hp/tq or so, give or take a little...
Everything is VERY well documented on this site, just search around, and take a look at other peoples build threads.

Manley rods are right around $300, and will withstand a claimed "650hp+"
I dont think anyone has ever bent one.
If your goal is under 250, i wouldnt worry about it.
But once you boost, i guarantee you will push for more... and those stock rods dont like to be pushed. lol

sixshooter

iTrader: (12)

Leave the engine alone. Add MS and turbo. Enjoy.

You will never make enough power with that turbo at those pressures to need to do anything to the engine. Keep it simple.

Joe Perez

iTrader: (8)

^ This.

By all means, go ahead and replace the timing belt and water pump. Change the front and rear main seals while you're at it. But that's about the limit of what I'd do to the longblock.

Miatacrazy716

iTrader: (2)

I really appreciate your guys wisdom and advice. I was tossing a lot of ideas and I have researched a lot of individuals build threads. Some left things alone others went above and beyond to what was needed. I will start with my turbo goodies and a MS. Are larger injectors needed along with a higher flow fuel pump or is that stuff good for less then 250hp? Thanks again for everyone's input!

sixshooter

iTrader: (12)

Have you even read the DIY FAQ sticky thread?

Yes and no.

Miatacrazy716

iTrader: (2)

Yeah I have and I have read a lot of others builds. I just don't understand everyone flames on someone for asking questions but my questions are asked because I get so many conflicting ideas on rights and wrongs from reading so much. One says do this and others so no this way is better. I wanted to just make sure I spend my hard earned money wisely.

I am not a just wasting everyone's time. I just want to do it once and do it right. That's why I posted my questions. I guess I will just read more and say screw it and do my own thing.

I do appreciate those who have chimed in with information. Thank you

sixshooter

iTrader: (12)

Then you know you will need injectors for anything over stock power and the stock fuel pumps are just fine.

Miatacrazy716

iTrader: (2)

I just re read that. Thanks for pointing that out