[s-cars] Valve Job Anyone?

[CaptMagu at aol.com]

Cody

I have seen your posts and have not been able to comment until now. I just 
got into BWI and have started my layover. The question has to include whether or 
not you see your self driving this car at the 220k-250k+ mile range or not. 
If you do then by all means go ahead with the bottom end rebuild and zero time 
your engine. That's what I did about 40k miles ago. Your peace of mind would 
also be enhanced if you did the bottom end. I don't think selling your car is 
an economical option either as the new buyer would want the car discounted for 
the needed work.

As for the rods, that question is a little harder to answer. With the head 
off the pistons, rods and bearings can all be removed and or replaced as 
necessary. Whatever you do, have the parts balanced. It is my understanding that you 
have to pull the head to get to the rods and pistons. Your current turbo, as 
small and cute as it is, runs perilously close to the magic 420hp barrier that 
brings on stock rod failure if you go with the FMIC. If you ever see yourself 
going with a larger turbo then replace the rods. If you want quicker spool, 
replace the rods with lighter ones. I realize that money is a challenge but 
these are all good reasons to go ahead with the rods.

I'm not trying to talk you into anything here. I'm just trying to give you a 
outside evaluation of your challenge. Good luck.

Hap, evaluatin in Everboost, Maguire