Pelican Parts Forums - 2.4 pistons/ low octane

I am about to start rebuilding a 2.4T (3R) to go in a 914. Some great info on here, I did a search but didnt quite find the answer I was looking for.

Problem is 2 piston wrist pins are in bad shape and cant be used. Rather than looking for 2 used 2.4T pistons/pins I am thinking about making it a little peppier and searching some used 2.4E or 2.4S pistons to bump up the compression if I can find some. I will be running the cast iron cylinders (provided the check out), carbs and likely the T cams, although I have not inspected the cams yet . It will just be for the street and maybe occasional autoxcross.

I know I could use 2.2T pistons and get about 9.1 compression but want to run on regular 87 octane gas (I drive a 914 afterall and am cheap!)and the 2.4 E and S would allow that. Most of the new non-Mahle sets I have seen have very high compression when used in a 2.4. I know there are JE pistons could be made. I will not be changing the cylinder head ports etc., and not interested in increasing displacement.

I also will not be running a front oil cooler and engine temperatures are a concern, it actually does get hot in Canada sometimes.

What is my best option:
1. Just get 2 used 2.4t pistons and leave it at 130hp.
2. Used 2.4 E or 2.4S pistons to get a litte more hp and maybe a cam swap down the line.
3. 2.2T pistons on 87 octane, will it run right?
4. Custom JE 8.5:1, can i use these in my cast iron cylinders?
5. Other?

Thanks,