FI newb on a rebuild project
 

I've been lurking on the FI section for a while but until recently it's not something I'd seriously considered for cost reasons. Then, suddenly a Winnebago pulls across a major highway and f*cks up my prized nismo (see thread RIP #206). I'm despondent.

Fast forward to today and I'm left with a car that's damaged but completely repairable, a pile of $$ for a total loss settlement (including a small bribe for not suing the sh*t out of them for a broken finger), and grand plans to get this thing back on the road. Obviously a donor car will get me all the boring stuff like front clip assembly, airbags, windshield, control arm and wheel that broke, etc. But I want more than just my bone stock car back on the road, which brings me to the fun part.

From what I read Fast Intentions is the way to go. Aside from their stage 1 TT kit with all the options (not that an oil cooler is optional) what supporting mods should I be considering besides the ones I've already got planned or have even ordered already? These include a Mishimoto radiator, silicone hoses, oil pan spacer, diff upgrade kit with Whiteline bushings, 2 piece rotor upgrade kit, clutch/flywheel kit, motor/trans mounts, subframe connector inserts, FI exhaust (duh), and head studs. I'm also replacing all the pulleys on the front of the engine while it's apart (65k miles on an 09).

Car will be a weekend toy on a safe 93 tune 99% of the time but I wouldn't be opposed to E85 once in a blue moon. I should probably add that I have my own garage and lift bay, an assortment of air tools, and a buddy who builds/finishes cars and does collision repair professionally. The car has already been on a frame machine and it's straight.

There's a general trend against all things Mishitmoto, but it's your choice.

You have a good starter list. For a weekend toy I'd recommend basically the whole SPL catalog. Check Rusty's build thread for ideas regarding general builds. Hotrodz, Spooler, and Madwi are also great people with extensive experience. And, if you just love the fvck out of stickers, talk to EW.

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What's wrong with Mishimoto? I thought they were supposed to be good.:ugh2:

If you want to build the motor do it right the first time and save yourself a ton of money. Going for a 2nd go around sucks.

I hear you on that but for this car I wanna keep it to just head studs and easy stuff if possible. I have a Jeep 4.0 stroker project and eventually an LS3 for my 56 Bel Air that'll give me all the engine building I'll ever want.

How far do you think I can push the stock block (and trans/diff) safely? I'm thinking I'll be happy with 550whp.

Head studs aren't going to keep your heads from lifting, keep the motor stock and just add the supporting mods. 550 whp the motor will last for a really long time as long as you don’t unnecessarily beat on it and keep up with maintenance.
Since you’re in Maryland go speak with Brian and Jon at Mamotorsports they will get you right.

Head studs are useless. The rods are what is going to break. A stock unopened motor is just fine with stock headstuds.

The best advice I could give you is research stock motor Twin turbo build threads on here. There is a ton of research you can do.

Good list, if you dont mind doing a little bit more DIY work the GTR TT kit is also something you can consider.

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From what I've been reading on this forum and from my own general mechanical knowledge it seems like I'm on the right track so long as I don't want anything insane.:ughdance:

Sound about right?

Yeap, You can go with a FI stage 1 or 2, 1300cc IDA injectors if you are doing E85, a diff upgrade to keep the power under control, A return fuel system of your choice, A clutch of your choice, and diff bushing upgrade.

Sounds like a plan then. I'm just happy that this car can take an additional 250hp without any "meaningful" upgrades. Meaningful meaning engine or other drivetrain issues... I come from a Mustang background.😂

Currently bidding on a salvage title nismo for my rebuild. Wish me luck.

Lost a pair of salvage auctions. The hunt continues.

Good luck on the build, brother. We're rooting for you :tup: