What are the must-do's on a basic motor build?
 

They say you "pay to play" and I've already started saving $ for an eventual motor build now that I'm FI. I don't need ported heads, fancy valves, super high RPM springs, etc. Just the basics and to address any other inherent weak points.

I would like to start snagging items here and there whenever I see a good price.

What are the basics that one must do to ensure a reliable motor build in the 300-350whp range?

I'm thinking forged pistons/rods, but are OEM bearings ok? Headstuds? I know there is a possibility of rocker arm failure, so should that be addressed as well? I'd like to maintain the stock compression ratio.

I've done some searching but am getting some mixed/confusing results. It would be great to put together a sticky on basic motor build options. Of course the sky is the limit if you want big power, but the average person woul probably just want reliability.

Thanks! :thumbup:

Rods, pistons, rings, bearings, full gasket set, head studs, valve springs. That's the basic replacement list. Upgraded valve springs will help keep the rockers from failing. As long as the bearing specs are properly checked oem bearings shouldn't be a problem

^ This and Maybe add ARP Main bolts.

How high do you want to rev the motor out?

Rods, pistons, valvetrain and head machining at the very least. I also would recommend WPC surface treatments, its expensive but your engine will last longer

Research, research, research.


Doesn't matter how much money or the amount of quality parts you put into your build if you don't know what the hell it does or how to troubleshoot it.

Sub'd

7500 RPM is fine. I see no reason to rev higher. What head machining would need to be done? Rods and pistons I get. Better springs to prevent rocker failure, sure. Not sure I need any special treatment or machining though.

Sounds pretty reasonable. Don't the rockers have an inherent flaw in their design (or used to?) where the pin could walk out and they fail? I thought I remember reading that somewhere.

I'm not after crazy power or RPM. Just a nice reliable build that I don't have to always worry about putting a new window in my block due to increased power.

The stock rods are pretty weak from what I understand, but how weak are the stock pistons in the 300-350 power window? I mean I don't hear about many pistons giving out on the FA20.

Add king bearings to that list.

I have 5 motors under my belt, 2 stock, 3 built ( I've blown the stockers and one that's built)

Best combo for a daily "budget build"

Rods
Pistons
ARO hardware
Valve springs
OEM bearings ( haven't tested kings yet )

I'm making 600whp with stock CR and forged internals with the above parts.

Valve job etc just to make things a little more efficient. WPC treatments reduce friction in your engine a lot and could potentially make it last longer, its about 500-600 for all the moving components of an engine.
You don't need it, but it helps. Just laying out options and what I am doing on my motor, however our power goals are completely different

Would ARP head studs, BC I beam connecting rods and Kelford valve springs be sufficient for someone shooting for <300whp?

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I'd consider something else than BC rods, but that's personal preference

So basically still advised to change pistons from stock?
That's super helpful though, thank you!