So I'm in the process of finishing up my turbo lsvtec build. And as usual, I'm stuck on what turbo I should purchase. A little background on the build. Fairly basic.

Stock LS Block
Wiseco 9:1 Pistons
Eagle Rods
B16 Head
GSR Cams
Victor X manifold
ID1000 injectors
Turbo manifold (yet to be chosen)

I found a brand new Precision 5431E CEA Entry Level Billet Turbo with an optional .48 or .63 a/r turbine housing for $680 shipped. $500-700 is my budget for a turbo.
Would this be a good selection for my build? Or is there something different that would suit my needs more efficiently?

My goal is 350-400 streetable whp. Something that makes power all the way to redline (7500rpm) but also doesn't lag like crazy.

I don't know if im being specific enough or if i'm even relaying the proper information. Just let me know if there's additional information that would make answering my question a little easier. Thanks in advance.

 

Good choice. That actually would work as long as the turbo holds together..

 

the 5557 is the slightly higher end turbo and flows a bit more than the 5431e, it also uses vband fittings.

look between those two

if you want that 400whp the 5557 is probably the better choice. at 350whp either will work fine

the 5431e flows 50lbs/hr and the 5557 either 53 or 54lb/hr in billet

 

The smaller unit works much more effectively for a stock LS block as opposed to one with a VTEC head. That is why I suggested it over the 5557. Airflow conversion isn't his issue; it's the utilization of at airflow with the particular characteristics of the cylinder head that he has. In this case, a stock LS. If it were a LS/vtec or B16, then maybe the 5557. But in this case, no.. The 5431 would be a better choice.

 

5431e CEA would be my choice too

 

that's a great point

 

He says B16 head so i'm assuming it's LS/vetc?

 

Yes, but again, he's looking at a response monster, more than even mid-to upper end power. The 5431 would be a bit more responsive than even the 5557, but either could work, theoretically. There's almost too many options here, to where you're splitting hairs at this point.

 

The 5431e is almost $200 cheaper as well, and fits into his budget. I like the 5557 more as well, but for his power goals and setup, the 5431e will work pretty good.

 

Sweet. Thanks for the responses guys.

Question for you shodan.. what do you mean "if the turbo holds together" with regard to the 5431e. Also, what turbine housing do you recommend?

I appreciate the various ideas. Is the 5557 much larger? I love a versatile turbo w/ potential, but keep in mind... stock sleeve.. 400 max.


As far as fuel... 93 octane and an aem progressive meth kit. Idk if that matters

 

I have concerns with Precision's consistency of quality over the last few months. I won't get into detail for fear of causing unneeded conjecture and unwarranted implication. I recommend a .63A/R ONLY for this configuration.

 

Sorry to start up an older thread, but I just ran across a Precision GT3251E for a very good price. ($500 new) I know these turbos are popular on LS turbos.. What can I expect on an semi-built Lsvtec? I don't want something that spools at 2000rpm lol & also runs the risk of topping off too early. Thanks in advance guys.

 

Almost new. This was a turbo that Precision made available before they went with their own design prior to 2006, and does quite well for LS, but is a little lacking for the LS/VTEC due to the better running cylinder head. The GT3251E uses a T04E compressor cover at about 44-46lbs/min, so its good to about 350whp maximum.

 

Gotcha..well that's a bummer. I liked the price tag. Shodan, can you offer a more ideal turbo for around that price? ($500-600). Im assuming you sell by the way. I believe I read a couple threads about a gt3255e you recommend/sell. If you don't mind pm'ing me w/ some info. I appreciate it.

 

I never said it was a bad deal. Having the Precision turbos when they were still Garretts are a great thing to have. you won't get a better turbocharger for the money...

I say run and get it anyway!!!!

 

This is the only picture he posted.. not much of a picture. Did precisions pre-2006 compressor housings not have cast marks? Also, he calls it an "AMS" gt32. Any input on that?

 

Anyone?

 

Relax. Its obvious that someone polished the housing, eliminating the markings on there (not as if there were really any on there.) Unlike Garrett, Precision pre-2006 did not have their logo cast on their compressor covers.

Looks like it was either sitting on the shelf, or barely used as a test unit. For that kind of money, it would work great for an LS. For an LS/VTEC, it might need to be pushed a little more.

 

More pictures... I just spoke with him on the phone. He said he bought if for a 240sx project but never got used. Has been sitting in his closet for 2 yrs. Claims to have never been used at all. He said a friend polished the housing but the etchings can still be seen. Very minimal shaft play...supposedly normal for a journal bearing..

 

yep. makes sense. go get it and stop stalling

 

Doesn't it look like some leftover gasket on the oil feed? Maybe i'm paranoid... I just hate getting screwed over lol (who doesn't).

I'm ok with spending the extra $150 for a entry-level precision that I know is new and that is rated a little higher (aka 3231 for $650)

You made valid points about it possibly being built better due to the pre-2006 facts.
I agree with you though.. It's a good deal... and I am stalling haha

 

I'm having it shipped by the way... He's in another state.

 

i wouldn't expect it any other way. better than "entry level"..

 

Okay.... I swear this is the last idea i'm going to throw out here.

What about a standard Garrett T3/T04e 57trim (or 60 trim)? I can get them brand new for $600. I'd be buying from a reputable business as opposed to an individual. Makes me feel a little more at ease. Also, rebuild kits are plentiful. I was told the AMS GT32 is almost impossible to find a rebuild kits for... I don't know how true that is.

And lastly... the Garrett flows 53lb/min. Maybe more efficient with an LSvtec eh?

 

You were told wrong. A Garrett internal rebuild kit for a GT32 is no different than any other Garrett turbocharger. Its the compressor wheel that gets a bit difficult to replace if you don't know where to find it. But, so would any Precision compressor wheel.

Its up to you on the 57/60 trim. The change between the two is very minimal. 51lbs/min vs. 53lbs/min.