Subject: 1992 Sierra with a low compression 2.0 pinto EFI (74kw, lower pistons making for a 8.6:1 CR if my references are correct) and a dead cam. Think it originally had cats too.
Plan: Top end rebuild with a Kent FR34 and slightly raised compression, keeping the rest more or less stock.
I'd like to leave the bottom as is, since I'm trying to keep things on a budget, but I feel like I may have to clean it up a bit anyway. There wasn't anything obviously wrong with it, but I never tested the compression, its got some carbon and has been sitting without the head for a good while.
So far the main parts list is:
- FR34 Kit
- Kent adjustable steel pulley (unless alloy ones are worth the extra money? The consensus seems that they don't last very long, but I'd love to hear more opinions about it)
What I'm not sure about is:
- Which head gasket to pick? Cometic ones seem to be overkill, there's Ajusa, but a 94.5 bore seems a tad big, then Felpro. Should I just get Reinz for £15? People seem to like it. Is it any thinner than standard? Anyone know the crushed thickness?
- Are new valves an absolute must or should I try cleaning up the old ones? Some tell me it's a waste of money and they do make up for a good 80 pounds.
Also, parts aside:
- What would be a safe CR for this setup where I don't have problems with either the stock management, detonation, clearance, etc? How much should I be skimming the head? (considering the head gasket thickness of course).
Anything else I should consider? Obviously I'll be replacing gaskets where needed, among other bits, but they're an easier choice.
Worth noting I don't live in UK and would like to get it all from Burton in one go, as shipping isn't very cheap either. Plus I wanna sort my parts by the end of the year to avoid import taxes after brexit.
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