Wondering how much experience any of you have with SGP. I am replacing the engine in my 04AT Coupe and thinking about purchasing one of their long-block race engines. Have not been able to get a hold of them due to the hurricane so tought I would ask members for experiences. I figured since I am replacing might as well start with strong build for future upgrades. Also wondering of all that I've read on pulley sets is true in that they could possibly cause damage to crank. I was thinking about going with UR's pully set but if what I've read is true no sense in wasting the cash.

 

SGP has mixed reviews. What exactly is your goal with the motor? Why is it being replaced? Are you going with an FI setup?

 

Well....unfortunately and I can't prove it but it appears last oil change I had done (valvoline shop) must not have put full capacity......I had about another 350 miles before I was due for 3000 mile change and I developed a knocking noise. I checked oil level and was quart low. Added the quart and knocking did not go away....took to stealership and they dx first as plugs...one not firing which they figured was throwing the timing (made sense)....they replace plugs timed it and still had knocking. They are telling me that lower engine is shot and will require replacement. Car has 115k (all highway) as I travel quite a bit.

I figured since I have to replace that I might as well do some mods to engine. I am not that tech savy (can do some of the required maint just don't have time) and have been wanting to do a few things....typical mods....MREV2intake, pulleys, exhaust and maybe at some point SC or Turbo. So I had read that a lot of the SA guys have their tuning done at SGP. Apparantly there is no performance shop here in SA that I know of that I would trust. So I thought since these guys build race engines that I would start with a solid base (upgraded cam, rods, pistons, etc). I have not been able to speak with them as I am assuming Hurricane Ike must have them closed for now.

Simply put, I want to make the right decision. I have shop that has located a 04 engine with 27k miles and lifetime warranty and can do the install (total would be about $4300) but I would really like to do some mods since the whole thing is going to be torn apart anyway......could a newer model engine be put in or is that asking for trouble?

Would appreciate any advise.

 

Please review you PM Ghost.

 

04 with 27k miles is extremely low. I would get that in writing, and double check if they have the gauge cluster to confirm actual mileage. Also lifetime warranty...check to see if that's just warranty for their installation labor.

I think the 05's have different wiring, but don't quote me on it. I'd double check w/ some other members of the forum. But another 04 should drop in without a problem.

 

SGP is a great shop and probably the best in Texas. Ever shop has its mix reviews, but we (Team 210vqz) haven't had any trouble with SGP. Just give it some time, due to the hurricane to give them a call. They will answer any of your question on your engine build.


Wouldn't buy the UR pulley, spend your money on something else. (Plenum Spacer,TP,HFC)

 

I have made purchases from them but never had them do work for me. The purchases all went through perfectly.

 

Thanks for all the responses. I have elected to replace with 04 motor and then sell. Going to move on to newer MT. Then let the upgrades begin.

 

I would check out import parts pro in Spring. They have a fully built short block for $2600. Here's a link: http://www.importpartspro.com/shblpa.html. Then you can go out and get a TT kit. Woo hoo!

As far as SGP i've heard mixed reviews. Sorry can't comment

 

You probly dont like SGP because of an employee that used to work there, Thomas. SGP does great work, i take my car there for anything i cant do myself and they are all cool guys. Mike told me about why you dont like them and the story just sounded wierd and dumb.... sorry

 

4 FI cars have gone to SGP and we never had a problem with them.

 

Man! I dont know what to say?