That is the question. A reputable builder has suggested that in addition to building the bottom end of my engine, I should also sleeve it (he likes AEBS).

He feels that the extra reliability justifies the cost, even if I only run 460-470 whp.

Now, if I sleeve, then I might as well take advantage of the bulletprof nature of my engine and port/work the heads. Of course that will add about 4.1 K to the cost. But then, I can make at least another 100 plus whp. Of course I would have to replace my brand new 2.5 inch exhaust w/ a 3 inch (2K) and my organinc clutch w/ a tripple carbon fiber (1.6 K more than the organic clutch would cost).

The question is, where should I stop? Should I just build the bottom end and be satisfied w/ 460 whp, or should I sleeve and stop there (for an ultimately reliable 480 whp...I will be limited in power by the heads/exhaust)? Should I just go all out, break the bank and hope that maybe this shop might sponser me (of course this shop is not SGP)?

Any advice?

 

To a certain extent, this is a fantasy site and it's easy to get caught up in the fantasy and lose touch with reality. The more you push the envelope, the greater the risk you incur - and uninsured risk at that. Is this car going to be a trailer queen or a daily driver?

My suggestion would be to buy one of those $6500 long blocks that have the workin' part beefed up and the breathin' part beefed up that supposedly will handle 650 WHP. Bolt on a TT and tune it for 450 WHP or so, add a racing radiator, oil cooler and exhaust and you will have an impressive, reliable (probably), entry level supercar.

Then (very important) stop reading these forums and enjoy your car for the next 10 years!

 

AMEN!

 

Personally I would go Darton over AEBS. There have been a few guys with coolant leak issues with the AEBS.

 

IMO, if you are going for 600 and under whp, ... i wouldn't bother with spending the extra cash on sleeves, ... If Anything, ... get headwork done instead ("stage 2") for that level.

since VRT beats on cars on the track with no sleeves, and their cars are 400~700 whp, i think that shows that a proper build and Tune on the VQ can handle that power without issues.

That said, ... if you were looking for a 'big bore' kit, then yeah, you'd need sleeves IMO.
i think exagorazo explained it pretty good too...

 

Yes, I have been thinking about it also. I should stick w/ my original plan: Just build short block (rods pistons) and keep power levels at around 460 whp.

I will get a fuel return and upgraded organic clutch and call it a day.

 

Instead of sleeves, I would address cooling by getting an upgraded radiator (mostly required with or without sleeves), possibly a oil cooler and I would definitely do this mod with your build as well...http://my350z.com/forum/showthread.php?t=195998.

If your tempted to spend more money, go with Cosworth or Headgames heads, they will allow more power at lower boost levels which will also lower motor stress.

 

Actually, there is a new twist: Jeremy (Audible Mayhem) is opening his own shop and I am seriously considering having him build my motor/install TT etc.

If I go w/ him (I am confident in his talents....my only concern is that he get HKS certified) I will probably sleeve and go w/ a tripple carbon fiber clutch, since he is giving me exceptional deals.

I will keep everyone updated. Right now I am just trying to get my car back. from the V-Pro install.

 

The AEBS stroker kit is pretty salty at over $7K. Also, not long ago they told me they do not have any crankshafts and will not be able to get any from their supplier until sometime next year at the earliest.

Also, you may want to find out how many of these kits are out there and running. It's a very low number if I remember right.