5S-FE Turbo project, Would like comments/critique Options

[Syaoran]

Hello, this would be my first elaborate post on here and I thought I'd get some feedback from you, the more experienced people.

I would like to know what your opinion on my idea for a boost build would be.

First off, I'm not going to use a CT-26. I would really like to, but the reason is that the ones I've found, that are NOT supra CT-26, are either in need of a rebuild or way too expensive for a small, old turbocharger, that isn't even a ball bearing to justify the price. That is my take on the CT-26. The CT-20b is way too rare, and expensive to rebuild in case I were to find one.


That leaves me with brand new eBay turbochargers. I have first-hand experience eBay turbochargers and I can say that some sellers do sell decent stuff. Ilovetacotaco sells some good turbo chargers.

My main question in relation to this topic is whether I should get a .50/.63 or .60/.63 turbo, considering I'll be using MegaSquirt-II or MS-III, undecided yet (have a friend that's been using them for more than 10 years now, he knows these EMS)

I plan on getting a cast T3 manifold with external wastegate. I'm looking to obtain above 250whp. I believe I should run relatively large injectors, right? Something like 460cc or more? Should I look into forged pistons and rods or should I just keep stock internals until I decide to go more boost?

My budget is about $2700, and this is what I've broken it down to.


1. Cast iron manifold $200 (add $50 for inside-out ceramic coating from a friend who does that)
2. Turbocharger ($150-$300)
3. Wastegate + BOV ($100)
4. Lines, flanges and welding work ($300)
5. TMIC or FMIC (~$300)
6. Pipes/t-clamps/silicone joints ($100)
7. MS-II ($400) / MS-III ($600)
8. 460cc RX-7 Injectors ($100)
9. Fuel Pump + Regulator ($200 if needed in the first place)
10. Gauges (Wideband, Boost, Oil Press. / $350-400)

Total: $2600

I know it'll be more expensive. I'm just wondering if I'd be able to get some things cheaper. I KNOW cheap/fast/reliable, but there's a fine line between what's considered "cheap" and just shelling out money for overpriced stuff.

I know I can rely on some eBay stuff. Most of the time cheap knockoffs are just as good as the originals, as most companies sell you something cheap for a lot of money because their brand name is on it.


Should I do TMIC or go for FMIC? I've already got the All-Trac hood, so I can fit a nice, small FMIC as a TMIC. I'd rather have a more simple setup, boosting 10-12psi. The less lines/pipes/etc, the better.

[Syaoran]

I'm with smaay on this one. The OP is overcomplicating a simple thing by overthinking everything .

If I were in your shoes I would just pick up the 3sgte turbo parts ( manifold, turbo, down pipe, lines etc )and bolt on the 5s . 3s guys are selling these parts dirt cheap when they upgrade. Sure the CT26 are old but replacement turbo's go for cheap all the time. Keep it simple with the 3sgte parts and if the turbo dies down the road, rebuild it , swap in another or get a CT to t3 adapter and pick up a good t3 flanged turbo to replace it.

Stay clear of eBay turbos . No matter what anyone says the facts are there . They are hit or miss. They work great for some but are night mares for others. You don't want to be the one who gets one and have the compressor wheel come off and pollute your engine bits of metal. The risk is not worth it.

I've heard the stories, but they're also from over 5 years ago. CT-26 aren't going for "dirt cheap", at least not cheaper than eBay turbos. All I can find is $200 for one that doesn't need repairing. Proper repairing most of the time takes re-balancing and stuff that will just end up costing me way more than it should, and the CT-26 isn't the best turbo to begin with.

OP i would just give extra attention to the ebay turbo you purchase. Ill be honest im not too savvy when it comes to ebay turbo's but im sure that a proper setup like you have planned "SHOULD" negate any issues.....

Out of curiosity do the ebay turbo's come water cooled as well...like i said i wouldnt know and am just curious....

Haven't seen an eBay turbo that's watercooled yet.