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Location: Brisbane
Registered: February 2003
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Re: Logical progression for modified gt4
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Fri, 03 October 2003 12:58

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Hi Stuart,
I was in exactly the same pickle as you ... what to do , what to do.
My solution was that I bought a JDM ST185 engine from an import wrecker. I'm slowly building it up. My reasons:
(a) Identical engine... my $500 Aussie HPC dump pipe will fit.
(b) All wiring and sensors are the same. Slightly different ECU, but its plug and play. The JDM is running in my car at the moment to give better fuel consumption (about 50kms more to the tank, now getting around 9.8L/100km) and more power at the same time.
(c) Much cheaper than a ST205. My engine was $800 inc ECU and Loom.
(d) Same potential power increase capability, in my opinion. Sure the ST205 makes more stock, but once you've rebuilt, I don't see much difference.
A pic in its current state, still stripping it down : http://www.amberaspley.com/gt4/pics/3SGTE/on-stand /front.jpg
The mods I will be doing to the engine:
* ARP Head Studs
* Either CPPistons or JE Pistons (haven't decided)
* Balanced bottom end
* Full gasket set
* Ignition mods (haven't researched it yet.. MSD?)
* Service items: waterpump, belts etc, and EVERY hose
* New bearings all round
* Hiflow CT26 turbo
Goal is around 350hp at the flywheel. So yeah, 200Kw at the wheels or so. Some people have told me that the 3SGTE can do this with standard internals.. but I want to build the engine really really strong.
The car already has an ST205 gearbox with lightened flywheel and heavy duty clutch. There is also the Aussie 3" dump and high-flow cat with connecting pipe. The backend of the exhaust is standard. I've completely done the suspension, and finally got it sitting nicely on the 17" wheels. See pic : http://www.amberaspley.com/gt4/pics/ExhaustDay/sid e_shot.JPG
Its gotta last me a long time, as in a years time I will be starting my own business and no doubt won't be able to afford to be fixing GT4s 
Pricing everything up, I believe the cost will be around $3.5K including engine purchase. The turbo I will be getting done at cost price, so maybe add $500 or so if you have to pay full price.
Just taking my time and enjoying it. I don't care if it takes 6 months to do, as there is nothing wrong with my current engine.
Make sure you keep me posted on what you decide to do.. i find it really interesting to see what others are doing to their 'fours 
seeya
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