Today was crazy. I have own a small HVAC company, and things are crazy around here because of the heat here in Utah. I didn't have a chance to see the builder today. for sure this week.
This builder said that he is going to do the calculations and volume measurements to find out what exactly the compression ratio is. I imagine every single one could be slightly different depending on how much material is removed from the pistons.
I have a binder of every thread started on the topic, and really, there are many holes, even if you take bits a pieces from every article and discussion online about the simple "vg34e" conversion.
I was pleased to speak with JWT and they said that my stock ECU will handle the conversion, and I assume that the stock injectors can handle the estimated power output of this setup. Well, lets assume under ideal conditions, this motor would put out 250 hp at the crank (which I think is a bit optimistic), could the stock injectors supply the fuel for that much power? I don't even know what size they are on a stock vg30 200sx setup. That info is likely a phone call away to JWT.
What drives me nuts about the pathfinder build with the vg34e, its like they were intentionally vague about parts of the build, like they were sharing proprietary information of something. Or they over simplified things saying clearanceing the pistons is simple, any machine shop could do it. Its obviously not that simple.
So, this car, is a car I cant believe resides in my garage. I feel like I am just its care taker, and have plans to never sell it. I have a great relationship with Kelvin. It is my goal one of these days to have him out to Utah to drive this car on the track (which he never actually did).
I have toyed with the idea of boosting this car. With the rods out of a vg30de/dett already part of the build, it would just require custom pistons for a lower compression ratio, (I would prefer around a 8.5:1 ratio for pump friendly power making). The 2 main hurdles are simple:
1. the tuning. I would likely to either a tec3r through Vic Sias with Sias tuning, or a AEM EMS through Mike Radowski at Maximum psi, maybe a Autronic SM4. I have had experience with all of these guys and Standalones on both my BMW M coupes, and My FD RX7's.
2. packaging. I would do a front mount, new radiator, schedule 10 stainless manifolds with a stock like OEM Z31 turbo cross over pipe (that would require cutting out the trans tunnel and managing heat on my car, and likely do a GT35r Garrett turbo with a Tial stainless Vband housing. Rear end would likely need to be upgraded from the subie r160 lds in it now. I think the CV axels are ready to go. Then my favorite mod ever, race logic traction control to reign in all in.
I could see this motor making crazy power on 91 pump. 450 wheel easy on about 13-15 psi. Way too much for a car like this. But why not. I think to do it right, it would cost me $10,000 by the time it was all done doing much of the work my self and with friends. For now, my M Coupe provides the plenty of go fast hp to keep the 510 mellow. And its really hard to justify something so expensive on a car that is just so right.
Over on Bimmerforums, where I have spend most of my time over there for the last 4 years (on the Z3 forum and the Forced induction forum) there is much more activity. This is natural just because of the shear volume of owners out there, and its so much more main stream. I just love how the BMW and any Car enthusiast group really embraces the 510, regardless of demographic or brand bias. There was a recent thread in the styles section over there, and someone posted a thread titles "hottest 2002's". Of course I couldn't resists to interject a few pics of the smurf, which incited only positive reactions.
I have a firm belief that if someone is really a car guy, they either have a great respect, or have actually owned a 510 once in life. I don't car if they currently own exotics. Real car guys know the history and beauty of the design, and the soul it carries. Its unforgettable if you have been in one.
I guess this has become a bit of an introduction of myself. I am excited to become more involved more over here. I have owned 4 510's. It was my dads 1st new car, and its was my first, and it will be my last. I'm from Sandiego originally (east county lakeside/eucalyptus hills) and graduated from HS in 91.
Here are a few pics of the 510, with mechanical destruction and build pics to come soon.
And, a bit OT, a bitchin shot done by a local photographer of the M coupe.
for those interested in knowing a bit more about the coupe, you can visit bimmerforums, and just look for my posts (also jonesmechanical).
Thanks for bringing a bit of life to the thread, and to this sub forum. ITS ALIVE!!!
