Are you getting your machine work done for free? That was a huge expense in my build; Balancing, boring etc. Also, there should be a new oil pump on that list i would think as well. I just couldn't justify re-using an old pump on a brand new build.

^ Not to thread jack, but how much did you end up spending on machine work?

If you don't mind, what all did you have done?

Curious to see typical labor rates for machining. Thats one thing I have no experience with.

Good question, i cant remember exactly how it all broke down. What I do remember is that having a head re-worked after burning 2 valves (so 2 needed replaced) ended up being around 230 bucks including the 2 replaced valves. That included re-grinding all the valves and milling the head, hot tank etc.

For my last build I spent a total of 1400 including pistons, rings (re-used rods), all the necessary block and head work just built back to stock specs and balancing. Also included in that is 100 bucks for them to assemble the short-block so that I could walk away with a warranty.

The shit isn't cheap, thats for sure. If I hadn't lost my invoice i'd scan it and post it up to give you an idea.

Here it cost $600 for standard machine work labor for a 4 cylinder. That's align boring the block and hone, cut the deck, polish crank, etc. Head gets the seats and valves reground. If crank has to be turned, caps line bored, head needs valve guides, etc, that's extra. Not cheap, but they do good work.

im doing labor/labor trade with a client ;)

well... decided against doing such a crazy build. i think its too early for me to drive such a fast car... new finalized build proposal: https://www.miataturbo.net/forum/sho...d.php?p=320389