Engine Build

[dpetteng]

So, after a few weeks of reading all the great advice, posting here etc I have come up with what sounds like a good combination but wants some validation.

The engine I am starting with is a US 3.2 217hp that has done 85k miles from a wrecked Porsche.

The engine will be going into a 1971 VW bus alongside a 915 transmission so will have a significantly different power requirement than a Porsche. Also, it will be used in the UK on high RON pump gas.

So, this is what I have got to from this forum:

Get NOS Mahle 95mm cylinders and pistons in the Euro 231hp style OR
Have my current cylinders bored to 98mm and replated and use 98mm 10.5:1 pistons?

964 cam
Jenvey ITB kit
Upgraded bolts (Racetec or alike)
Crank repolished
new bearings all round
reuse rods
ECU to control ignition and fueling (with knock sensor)
reuse heads (who can refurb these? How much will they cost?)
Crank trigger ignition
Keep original exhaust and exchangers?

I do not want a race engine. I want decent useable power that will start every time and not last a few months but years.

Any advice guys?

[JV911SYDNEY]

sounds like a great project! - I'm really impressed with the Jenvey setup on mine. The throttle response is instant

The 964 cam is pretty mild. I suggest a custom grind from say Elgin to take advantage of the ITBs. You'll make loads of torque, and given you get good petrol in the UK and aftermarket ECU (Motec?), it won't be too lumpy/rough.

9M (ninemeister) or Redtek can help refurb and port the heads

A common upgrade on 964s is to go to 993 headers but an engine like this deserves an aftermarket exhaust. The fact that it's going in a bus might dictate a custom exhaust anyway (?)

[dpetteng]

Thanks for the advice.

I am currently living in the US so can get my head work done over here. I am guessing the oem exhaust will be no use?

On the cylinders and pistons, should I go stock Euro Mahles or rebore my cylinders to 98mm and add JE pistons? Doesn't seem to be much difference in price by the time you factor in machining and recoating?

[JV911SYDNEY]

oh you're in the US - Steve @ rennsport is your man then. Forum member and top bloke - I believe he does the Jenvey/Rothsport ITB kits too

Rennsport Systems | Porsche Performance Systems and Support

If it were me I'd pay a small premium and go the new Mahle P&Cs. Steve could suggest what pistons and cam grind would be most appropriate for your setup and goals.

[dpetteng]

Great, what is Steve's username on here so I can contact him?

[JV911SYDNEY]

Steve@Rennsport