Should I replace my pistons?
#1
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Hi, I am rebuilding my 1.8 stock engine on a 95 Miata for the first time. I just removed the pistons to inspect what I have. I am for sure replacing rings bearings and I have already decided on going forged rods. Based on what I've read on the forum and my goals I planned on keeping stock pistons. However, after quick inspection I'm not sure if I should just opt in for new pistons, opinions? I am definitely a noob. Thanks!
![](https://www.miataturbo.net/attachments/build-threads-57/174129-should-i-replace-my-pistons-2e3d1qc.jpg?dateline=1466041084)
![](https://www.miataturbo.net/attachments/build-threads-57/174129-should-i-replace-my-pistons-2e3d1qc.jpg?dateline=1466041084)
![](https://www.miataturbo.net/attachments/build-threads-57/174130-should-i-replace-my-pistons-kcgnzp.jpg?dateline=1466041084)
#4
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They look fine, I'd inspect closely around the tops. Do note if you grab the supertechs you'll likely have to bore out the block so that they fit. Extra costs...
fwiw, I'm pretty much satisfied with my manley forged rods. Snag some ACL bearings if you can... I had to settle with cleavite due to ACL shortages.
fwiw, I'm pretty much satisfied with my manley forged rods. Snag some ACL bearings if you can... I had to settle with cleavite due to ACL shortages.
#7
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I think I may be able to afford the supertech/wiseco combo if I need them. The thing is though I was setting my goal for around 300whp so I was thinking I could get away with OEM. But if I did wanna bite there bullet would 949 be the place to go for about $550? Here's what all 4 look like.
#9
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needed a new crank pulley for my 1.6. ended up with a vvt motor with manley rods.
very slippery slope! lol
Fab9 has the supertech/wiseco combo for $474
Boring the block to fit the new pistons will run you about $100, so that isnt bad. At least thats the cost around here where i am.
Pistons would give some extra security but your stocks should be fine with a good tune.
Also, it doesnt matter what pistons you run, tune is the absolute most important thing!
very slippery slope! lol
Fab9 has the supertech/wiseco combo for $474
Boring the block to fit the new pistons will run you about $100, so that isnt bad. At least thats the cost around here where i am.
Pistons would give some extra security but your stocks should be fine with a good tune.
Also, it doesnt matter what pistons you run, tune is the absolute most important thing!
#11
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I want thank everyone for the help . I ordered acl race rod and main bearings. I'm still up in the air about the pistons. Can someone tell me why I shouldn't do this?
Supertech P4 MA8350 N4 4 Piston for Turbo Nitrous Applications for Use with Pi | eBay
It's literally the same model number as listed on 949 for a 5th of the cost. Am I missing something? Besides rings
Supertech P4 MA8350 N4 4 Piston for Turbo Nitrous Applications for Use with Pi | eBay
It's literally the same model number as listed on 949 for a 5th of the cost. Am I missing something? Besides rings
#12
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That price is per piston. There is no reason you shouldn't do this unless you are really super strapped for cash, at which point, i'm surprised you're rebuilding a motor rather than buying a running one
All 4 cylinder engines must purchase quantity 4 and 6 cylinder engines must purchase quantity 6.
#13
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Wow I'm actually embarrassed for myself. I can't believe I didn't read or realize that was per piston lol. So basically going through a forum vendor is probably the best option? And based on what was said above I'm probably looking at around $575 for a set of pistons, rings, and a hone. Worth it for the peace of mind even if I'm not planning on making crazy numbers right now?
#14
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It never hurts to know that there are no weak points in your bottom end. Even if the tune is perfect, you know the engine is built enough to handle whatever you want to throw at it.
I'm on Supertech/Eagle rods.
A $600 investment means you will be able to change your setup around in the future if you so desire without having to blink twice about the motor. Aside from an upgraded oil pump and a harmonic damper.
I am happy to send my money to 949. The slight increase in price compared to other vendors is made up by fantastic customer service and great communication. There are cheaper places, but if there's ever an issue with your order, you may never get it rectified and end up spending more to get the correct parts you weren't sent.
I'm on Supertech/Eagle rods.
A $600 investment means you will be able to change your setup around in the future if you so desire without having to blink twice about the motor. Aside from an upgraded oil pump and a harmonic damper.
I am happy to send my money to 949. The slight increase in price compared to other vendors is made up by fantastic customer service and great communication. There are cheaper places, but if there's ever an issue with your order, you may never get it rectified and end up spending more to get the correct parts you weren't sent.
#19
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You're in the right sub forum. Just create a thread (or ask mods to modify this one) to include some clever name and state your intentions, post photos of the process, of your cats, of your failures, and successes. Just keep it updated and when you have problems or need guidance we can chime in and follow your work.
#20
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That would be awesome! And I'm sure that would really help me out and it would be cool to see the progress! I have read a lot on the forums before I even posted anything. And it seems like the thing that irritates people the most is whenever a dumb question is asked that's already been answered 500 times. I'm not trying to be like that but at the same time it is nice to have help on your specific build (in my case piston wear.) Maybe I should start a new thread so it's fresh.
As far as the machine shop goes I probably should call considering I've never even been to one before lol.
As far as the machine shop goes I probably should call considering I've never even been to one before lol.