turbo qustion

[Swonder67]

Originally posted by P10DET


Oh, I'll definitely buy that.

But, I think the original question absolutely cannot be answered because there is not enough information to draw a conclusion. I've been waiting to be asked "depends upon what?"

Ok P10det, Depends on what?

[apintojr]

yo b -boggie u live just around the corner from me. i live on windsor. i just moved up here about a year

[Group3J]

Just like to make an observation. Actually before I do, I best point out that I don't know who JDM is or what they do. However I'm going to make the assumption (which is dangerous I know) that they import Japanese engines.

In Oz, buying and installing imported engines is VERY common. I've purchased 3 (who could turn down an SR for $850 Aust??), thus far, with not a single problem. I also have many friends who have purchased engines (some FJ20Turbo's, which are much older than the SR) and again, in what is probably 20 engines purchased, I can only think of 1 which had any problems - and it was replaced by the importer.
I have to agree with P10DET in that you can't tell what sort of condition the engine is just by looking at it. However, the reputable importers over here test the engine on a test bench and give them a run up. Not a guarentee, but certainly a gauge of their condition. They also perform compression tests on each cylinder. So, assuming JDM operates in a similar fashion, you shouldn't have too much to worry about in terms of the motor.

Also, what P10DET said about rust on cast iron blocks is quite correct. In drag racing it's a well known practice to leave blocks out to weather. I *think* (ie I'm not sure) it has to do with the rust effectively surface hardening the cast iron.....it etches it. It may also reduce the porosity or the material (????) - could be WAY off on that......

[Swonder67]

JDM stands for "Japanese Domestic Market" it's not a company, just what we call japan spec engines. because the US doesn't have a DET

[Group3J]

Ahhhh.....thanks for that! It constantly amazes me how different markets recieve different cars. One country gets something really good (Skyline GTR, for example), while other countries don't get it....it's a real bummer.

Did you guy's get the S15 Silvia (aka 200SX) over there? Awesome car.......

[G-Forces]

Originally posted by Group3J
Did you guy's get the S15 Silvia (aka 200SX) over there? Awesome car.......

SHUT UP! Thanks for rubbing salt in old wounds.

:cry:

[P10DET]

Originally posted by Swonder67
Ok P10det, Depends on what?

Well, I'm glad someone was smart enough to ask!

Here are some of the things that have to be taken into account.

1) Power goals
2) Age and condition of the DE
3) Budget

For modest power goals, 250hp or less, if the DE is in great shape, it tends to be a better idea. If the DE is not in great shape, or has very high miles, a DET is often a better idea. One does have to be careful about buying a DET however. But, the thing that most often is wrong with DETs is also a problem with buying used market DET turbo set-ups. That problem is blow turbo bearings and/or seals.

For power goals above 250 hp, it can actually make sense to build a turbo SR20DE. Why is this? Well you pay a premium for the DET. What you get besides the turbo is sodium filled valves, low compression pistons, and piston coolers. By purchasing a DE core and rebuilding it for turbo duty, you can end up with a better engine for the same or less money.

JWT can drill and tap for the piston squirters. They can also supply the low compression pistons, either forged or DET cast pistons. For more than 250 or so hp, you must replace the injectors, MAF, turbo, manifold, intercooler, etc. Those costs add up. You can, of course, sell the components off the DET, but they sell for cheap these days. If I were going to build a turbo engine for over 250 bhp, I'd personally avoid the DET and rebuild a DE with piston coolers, low compression pistons, and some internal coatings. Remember, this is in contrast to building a big hp DET.

It is indeed possible to put 400 hp to the wheels of a stock internal SR20DE. It's been done a few times already. The choice here is up to the individual. I personally wouldn't try building a big hp turbo engine without first building the bottom end appropriately. But that's just me.

There are other factors as well, but this should give folks some real meat to chew on.