I'm trying to put together a list of parts for an engine build and would love some input and suggestions. I'd like to keep this as simple and inexpensive as possible, I just want to make sure I have everything on my list that's absolutely necessary and haven't included something I could just as well leave stock.

The motor will be going in a streetcar, it will need to endure many miles and what I hope will eventually approach 400whp, being very optimistic. It will see some limited autocross and drag time, but will not regularly be run on a track at high rpms for an extended period of time (and if it is put on a track I'll surely detune it significantly).

Bottom end:
Eagle Rods
Supertech 84mm 9:1cr Pistons
ACL Rod Bearings (stock size I assume?)
ARP Head Studs

As for the head, I just picked one up that's going to need to be cleaned up a bit as there appears to have been some piston/valve interaction in it's past. I'm going to replace the valves, is it necessary to replace springs/retainers? Should I go ahead and do +1mm valves on intake and exhaust while I'm swapping them out?

 

What head? IMO, if 99-00 or VVT, the money spent vs Hp gained on +1mm valves isn't worth it. Springs on the other hand is a worthy investment IF you plan on high revs - like 8k every now and then - you might touch that at the drag strip.
Just be sure to check, and double check your tolerances for the bearings and rings.
ARP Mains? Boundary pump?

 

Biggest thing to have replaced on an old head is the valve guides, and obviously all seals. Beyond that it gets silly expensive for the return.

 

The head I bought is a '99. I took a few pictures, maybe the valves are salvageable? I really know absolutely nothing about heads/headwork. The damage is only on cylinder 4, the rest are fine.





Intake Open:


Exhaust Open:


I thought about doing main studs and an oil pump, but I really don't want to go crazy with the motor and spend every penny I have on it. The bottom end is out of a '99 as well, I've read a lot about the '99 thrust bearing issue which I assume I should take a good look at it when it's pulled apart.

 

I am in the same boat, but would it be more simple/better to just buy the trackspeed f/i motor for $4000?(incl core)

 

We certainly think so Shipping cores isn't all that expensive - if you have a usable core, we can get it across the country for ~$450 or so.

 

Sounds like a good start. Might as well the ARP main studs and BE Oil pump gears/assembly as well. You may also want to look into getting a more street oriented bearings (I'm guessing you were referring to ACL Race series?).

If the head checks out...for a buget build, maybe look into doing Exhintake swap (on NB you get a bit more lift doing this)... valves probably not worth it unless you get port work to follow, which then drives the price way up. Maybe get some very basic port work to remove the casting flashes, etc, but that's it.