What is the point of getting a built engine and stay with oem pistons? I mean, you will get into all that trouble to stay with the oem pistons? Don't get me wrong, oem pistons are great, but they cannot be compared with forged pistons. If eventually decide to build the engine and want earlier spool, u have to buy a ball bearing turbo with the MHI housing to maintain spool, or if u decide to use the 4g64 block, fit a 100mm crank, a 156mm rod and an aftermarket piston and you will be able to gain some noticable spool

 

@ConEvo I don't see why I wouldn't want to stick to the stock pistons if they are doing a good job. Keep in mind, my evo is not making more than 400whp. Why spend on parts that are made for hight hp/torque evos? I had HKS 7460. It was leaking oil. Ran 28 psi with it. Not a reliable turbo in my book.

 

@kikiturbo I had the HKS 7460, slightly better if not similar spool characteristics as compared to the stock 9 turbo. The turbine side leaked oil and the car was blowing white smoke. It was boosting 28 psi. Not a reliable turbo in my book. My friend, who owns a 9, had similar reliability issues as well. BTW, mine is an 8

 

Because you will get to all that trouble building a block. I have the opinion of doing it once and never look back. My piston skirt broke at 386whp at 26psi of boost. Although the piston damage is always tuning related, a forged piston is more forgiving than a cast one. Anyway, it is my opinion that an aftermarket piston (JE, Wiseco, Carillo etc) kit is a good investment for the reliability of the engine.

Also, if the block needs a bore, the oem pistons won't fit, so aftermarket pistons would be a must.

 

@ConEvo Thanks for the suggestion. I will eventually have to buy an oversized piston with stock height with this kit. I am sure, the block would need bore work sooner or later.

 

I would skip the kit with funny rods and non OE crank... just get one with mitsubishi g64 crank and buy some mahle pistons