Back in the early 80's I had an experienced mechanic build me a 2.4 liter type four motor with European racings 103x71mm kit. The first build sucked a valve before the 15k mile mark and the second time one of the rings gave out before it made it to 15k miles. Each time I spent around $5k to build it or fix it.. After that I installed a stock 2.7 six with Webers and it ran over 100k miles before it started pulling head studs. The 2.7 only had a top end overhaul when I bought it for $3500.00. Instead of overhauling it I bought a 3.2. This motor has well over $150k miles with zero issues and still has good compression. After getting burned twice I am a little biased against big type 4's.

If you call Chris, have him build you a motor...he does a great job and stands behind his work.
Ed who works for him is a genius with motors...you are in good hands.
Drop down to Hartford for a visit, listen to his advice, give him a try, you will be happy.

rich

Sorry, Randal--that was not directed at you or anyone specifically. Just a mention that quite a number of people who haven't built or lived with Big Fours will be happy to offer opinions on them. And I am one of that number, I have lots of opinions but little direct experience.

My intent was that people who have been-there-done-that are more worth listening to than Those who have not. (Which doesn't stop me from talking. ;) )

--DD

:)
 

Building any motor is a nose bleed.

Building big 4's can be worse as the process/ technology isn't exactly documented.

The good news is that there are steller people out there that can help and are willing to do so.

References upon request.