hey, I have a 00 B18C1 and Im in the process of upgrading my valvetrain. Which setup is better for my vehicle. Stage 1 cams with upgraded valves, springs, and retainers. Or Stage 2 cams with upgraded valves, springs, retainers and ITR pistons for higher compression because the stage 2 cams cause compression leaks. So which do you guy thinks would be better for my GSR!!!

 

mmmmmm....what do you think?
i think the answer is obvious....

 

You're gonna need more compression than some ITR pistons to power those stage 2's depending whether you go with the USDM or JDM ITR pistons. Go with the JDM ones and go with a 2-layer headgasket to help out some. Don't forget you're gonna need tuning done in order to get the best power out of the cams and upgrading fuel setup would help also.

 

Without bottom end work, I wouldn't venture past the stage 1's.

 

installing the pistons is considered bottom end work. Obviously you don't have a full understanding of a motor yet son. and many others have agreed to going with the stage 2 setup anyways.