Thoughts and Opinions on 2.2T Rebuild / Upgrade

[Myami]

Hey Pelicans:

As I begin to embark upon a rebuild of the 2.2T motor in my 71 (a 911/03 with Zeniths), I wanted to get some thoughts and opinions.

I am not intending to build a "monster" nor a "race car". However, as the second owner of the car and the case never having been cracked, the engine could use a going-through and I would like to improve the power output while I'm in there. I would like to avoid irreversible head work or going too deep down the rabbit hole as "good enough" would be still be leaps and bounds ahead of my existing performance.

Recently, the engine got a thorough external cleaning and straightening up, which included the installation of SSIs, 930 tensioners and idler arms, new chain ramps, and a host of other improvements in the way of fresh hoses, lines and hardware. It looks much better and leaks less oil, but is still lackluster in the power department.

This is my plan: (i) 2.4/2.7 crank (70.4mm) and corresponding rods; (ii) E or Solex (DC30) cams; and, if my P/Cs are shot (iii) 2.2E P/Cs. From my research here and elsewhere, this combo should yield approx. 160hp and a stronger engine that is more fun around town in the the canyons . . . all without breaking the bank. Just what I'm after.

These are my questions:

A. Overarching question -- The car is matching numbers, meaning the improvements would be performed to the original engine. While preserving originality has been a focus of mine, I find it hard to believe these reversible upgrades would be frowned upon by anyone. With that said however, would this be a mistake? If so, I can scrap this plan altogether and look for a donor motor. Perhaps a 3.0L.

B. Budget question -- I will be collecting the necessary parts, but won't be doing the work. What should I expect this build to cost? I know we won't know exactly what the engine will need until it is apart, but ballparks and ranges would be appreciated.

1. Crank questions -- Should I be looking for (or avoiding) anything specific when shopping for cranks? Should I be concerned about used cranks that require "0.25mm" grinds? Will any used crank in good condition be sufficient to send out for the requisite cleaning/prep/work by an expert and achieve the desired result?

2. Cam questions -- Should I be looking for (or avoiding) anything specific when shopping for 2.2E cams? I would prefer to avoid regrinding my T cams and understand that some feel T cams are a decent match for this upgraded motor. I also understand that John Dougherty creates Mod-Solex cams and intend to go that route, "while I'm in there". This is as far as I would hope to go (provided my little T pistons are in good condition) as my research suggests the upgraded crank will bump my compression to an acceptable level.

3. 2.2E P/C question -- I will likely purchase these new, if needed. Is there a preferred set of P/Cs (brands, vendors, etc.) for this type of build? This should be an easy one.

Thanks in advance!

[Hi_Fi_Guy]

Just a few variables to consider before you start spending your money. I would suggest finding an engine builder you want to work with before purchasing parts. Some shops will not touch customer sourced parts (don’t want to be responsible if part is wrong or fails) so you would want to investigate that as well. Often times shops have relationships with vendors that may allow them to purchase parts at a discount and even if they add on some markup for profit may still be cheaper than retail prices.

I also find that each engine builder has their own recipe for what they consider to be the “best” 2.2 build. You may need to talk to several to find the ones who share your vision for the engine.

[Myami]

Sage advice, Brian. Being in LA, there’s no shortage of competent, highly-acclaimed builders within a stone’s throw of downtown. Fortunately, one of the good ones has been working on my car since he brought it back to life a few years ago and is happy to let me drive the sled, within reason of course.

As my initial post might suggest, writing checks without sifting through the details and weighing the options is not for me.

[SWS911]

A few things to consider.
Your Marelli needs to go. Find a 006 Bosch.
Your intake ports are the smallest and so are the manifolds which should match.
Be careful of too much compression or you will be dual plugging.
If I were doin' this build I would look for a counter balanced 66mm crank, some 2.2E or 85mm JE pistons, port the heads, but not too much, E cams, and the Bosch 006.
Getting the distributor to match the cam timing is always key.
The E cams still have some low end torque compared to the S or solex cams.
Getting the 85mm pistons with 9.5:1 comp ratio would add displacement.
Food for thought.

[Myami]

Great thoughts, thanks. I neglected to mention that my Euro car came with a Bosch distributor (and that I recently had it rebuilt), so I’ve got that part covered. It always surprises me when I see a Marelli in someone’s built car ...

Your advice re: compression is well taken. As is your suggested build. Researching the “66mm crank + 85mm pistons” route will be my project today.