Build up 5sfe, what to do Options

[Anub1s]

Hey all!

I am starting my new engines class on Oct 19 and found out that I have to put an engine together for THE project in that class. I decided that I would like to just build up a 5sfe. I've been thinking about going F/I but I would rather keep it N/A. I was wondering what everyone else thought about this. I have noticed a lot of people turboing theirs but there are not to many people that have just built up the internals for more h/p. What is everyone's thoughts on this and also what setup would you recommend (parts, compression ratios, brands, item #'s etc.) I've been searching and researching everything needed for this and have come up with some ideas but would like to get some input on this.

Thank you all for the help.

[Kwanza26]

I guess I'll post about it again... ;]

Ummm... the 5SFE will not make a ton of horspower... but there is power to be made. The head can be ported and milled to some degree and flow can be increase in the head at the expense of low-end torque. Being an oversquare motor, the 5SFE will not make a lot of horsepower in the top-end because it lacks the ability to revv. What should be concentrated on should be making power where the engine makes it best... in the mid-range by increasing overall compression, and induction ability.
There is plently of low-end torque, so horsepower modifications can sometimes eat away at the low-end numbers, but give and take... that's how you build n/a. As for piston choices, I believe there may be some, but chances are you're gonna have to go custom. You can always mill the head to increase compression... and things like that, but a set of pistons will be the best bet. I don't know of anyone making pistons that may work. 1MZFE pistons *might* work... but might require custom wrist pins and boring the block. I could see around 10:5:1 compression on the pistons with a milled head with proper valve clearences... but beyond that, you're looking at getting high-comp pistons.
Induction will have to be improved also, if you're looking at increasing compression. Larger sized valves will be wanted/needed... I forget the exact size of the 5SFE valves, but basically try and source some slightly larger ones... a few mm or so. Slide those in, with some upgraded valve springs and retainers and you should be good. A good port and polish with a 3 angle valve job would be good also. All of that is done so you can best utilize camshafts. Get a custom ground set under 280 degrees duration and less than 8.5mm lift... otherwise you'd be in danger of valve float... even with upgraded springs. Slap that together and tune the motor... and you should be good for at least 20-30+ hp at the wheels...

NOTE: Easier said then done... ;]

good luck