Sup folks!
I've been debating for the longest whether to build my GS or get an SC.
I recently ran across a listing for a used SC racecar. I'm still gathering information, but I wanted to get some opinions from the general population based on what I DO know.
I'm aware that I'll be inheriting someone else's issues (as with any used car), however this one runs and drives. SC's are getting more and more expensive, especially for running/drivable condition. This car will not be my dd, but it won't be exclusively a track car either.
Car has turbo, Microsquirt ECU w/ wideband DIY tune , 370 lph fuel pump, and "modified cooling system". All that for $4500
Do you all think this is a good starting point for my project, or would I be better off starting w/ a blank canvas and building from there?
My thought process on this goes two ways:
1) This could end up costing A LOT because I may have to undo everything, there may be issues with the reliability of the current setup/parts.
2) All of the basics are already in place, I may just have to button up a few items and get better tune. If I do get it and it blows up, I'll just have to get a new motor and start over from there.
Have any photos of the engine bay, etc? Megasquirt makes some great stuff, but I'm not sure about the MIcro set ups (I've run MS3 Pro in the past and absolutely loved it). I think it depends on what base motor it is, if it has any supporting mods, a decent turbo, etc... If it's been done well, has nice parts, good compression, etc I think it could be a steal. If that's not the case - I personally would hard pass and put something together myself that I know has been thought out and done well.
I saw a couple of photos, and I've reached out to get more as well as a video. The car is 6 hrs away from me, so it's a manageable weekend trip away, however I only get one weekend off per month with my work schedule.
2uz vvti block w/ oiler holes plugged, 1st gen UZ rods (the thicker ones), stock pistons and crank, new OEM bearings, 1UZ non vvti heads, "Modified" fuel system, 370 lph fuel pump in-tank.
Seller states "runs and drives, has a few final details that need to be squared away mostly simple things like all the lights need to be wired to the switch panel"
Hmmm... Man, I'll be honest - someone else's turbo 1UZ/2UZ project makes me nervous. Those are pretty involved custom builds often times and if the work is done poorly it's going to be a nightmare. Personally, I wouldn't bother... BUT - depending on your skill level and your willingness to mess with it there's always a possibility that it's put together well enough to make work and have a great running project on your hands. A few engine bay shots and some other photos of the work done will be helpful because a quick glance on a build like that will help determine if it's been slapped together or well thought out.
One more thing... Some random person assembling a bottom end also makes me nervous. I've put a few motors together and that makes me nervous enough, but I've seen people assemble motors in terrible fashion and they don't last long like that. I'm thinking too risky for my blood but we'll let you be the judge!
Thanks Rudy. I am leaning to agree w/ you as well.
In the interim, I found a low mileage stock SC in Florida that I'm strongly considering. Only downside is the color combo is black/tan.
This isn't a "have to" purchase, so I'll keep my options open. Thanks again for the input.
I agree, it's an involved build and pretty much everything gets removed and put back together. A lot more than a head gasket job. It is pretty unique though and sounds like a good combo if done right except I am not sure about the stock 2uz pistons being reused but maybe they are fine. On the 2jzge vvti they are not good for reusing with lots of boost even if you change the rods.
