So I think I have a cracked ringland in my WRX. I haven’t done a compression or leak down test yet. I’ve been researching what the next step should be, and I’ve found a lot of shops selling pre-built blocks for anywhere between 3 to 5K. My end goal for the car is no more than 350whp. I’ve built Nissan and Honda motors before, and for something like this issue, it would probably be a hone or over bore and re-assembly with forged pistons. So I guess my questions are: 1. Do I really need another complete long block? 2. Will changing the pistons to forged units be enough? 3. Any recommendations for stock bore forged pistons? 4. Are there any advantages or disadvantages between number 1 and 2? Thanks in advance.
1. Probably not unless you ruin your long block by getting material in your oil. 2. Most likely should be fine for only 350whp 3. Whatever your engine builder like to use. I personally liked the Mahle pistons I had.
These posts always scare me... I have a 2013 stage 2.... How many miles do you have on the car? Can attribute the issues to a certain thing? track days, highway speed runs, etc?
1. Adding oil analysis to list right now 2. OK 3. Those seem to be the most popular (Manley Platinum series 99.5mm 8.5:1 comp. forged pistons) The car has 33k on it. Never tracked, only weekend spirited driving (I sit in traffic on I-20 both ways for work everyday) The only issue I’ve had recently was that I drove to FL last month, and somewhere on the drive the BOV hose came off from the intake manifold. I watched the gas mileage and gas gauge start to fall, not paying enough attention, and by the time I got to my destination, the car would barely stay on and there a P0171 code. Fixed it the next day, reset the ECU and drove back to GA fine. The above symptoms started just recently though, can’t pin point exactly when.
Mahle....not Manley I know TopSpeed use to use CP Pistons that were custom made to their specs. I have used CP, Mahle, JE, and Endyn (cant remember who actually makes it for them). I cant really say one was really better than the other. That is why I say stick with what your engine builder likes. He likes them for a reason and knows them better than something you decide to bring him.
If you are honestly thinking of no more than 350hp I would HIGHLY recommend the MAHLE 4032 pistons. They will last you well longer than the 2618 piston and are much stronger than OEM pistons. Have Ball Engine assemble the engine for you.
Ringland issue will usually kick misfire codes when flogged in anger, any codes? Have you checked the PCV system?
Yeah, the only way I'd reach 350 on the stock turbo is E85 which is a possibility, but a turbo upgrade for more power isn't going to happen. I’ll check out the Mahle 4032 for sure. Ever since my 'self-diagnosis', the car hasn’t seen any boost. It’s been babied to preserve the rest of the motor. But to answer the question, no, haven’t thrown any codes. I have not checked the PCV system, what exactly would I be looking for?
Check the lines and valve for blockage. Being the new engine I'm not sure of location. Best thing is to cruise up to Allpro
Certainly never like seeing these kinds of threads :/ Let me know if there's anything I can help with in the diagnosis.