i have a couple options tryin to figure out what to do... anyway i have a spare D15b7 with 180k on it and access to a machine shop thinking about changing rods and machining the head back to OEM then boosting it about 10psi with a home made turbo.. just wondering if the stock pistons will hold up cuz they seem well made just the rods are a lil skimpy. My other option is picking up a ZC SOHC Vtech and w8in on the boost. Just looking for some input as im on a budget and looking to make 200 - 250 whp with a good chrome tune.... thanx in advance

 

the pistons may look well made, but how does their condition look? Even though the motor may not have been abused, 180k is still 180k. alot. So you may end up having the rings go bad among other problems, but at least you have access to a machine shop. How much would a set of used pistons set you back?

 

a 200 to 250 whp goal is a good goal. imo i would go with the zc head, build the block, and then boost it. but running a turbo set up @ 10 psi on stock head and internals won't get you to 250 whp.

 

bone stock block motor will be able to handle 10 psi on a good crome tune. it al depends on the tuning. no need to to any machine work. mabe a oem headgasket and arp headstuds to prevent headlift and thats it.

 

not sure :/ looking to do eagle rods and i know they are pricey if i can find a good price on rods and pistons ill do the full set up as for the head if i buy the pistons i'd rather regrind the seats, valves, and see the condition of the springs and retainers b4 i go swaping the head (i can buy a full ZC for $500 engine, trans, ecu) plus isnt it harder to tune a Vtec to boost with the overlap Vtec causes? * if i do a swap i wont be able to afford internal work and turbo .... wouldnt like to lower the compression and run w/o the turbo lol.. still open to opinions tho im leanin towards the swap ne way lol