Hey everyone, I have a '77 280 that I'm looking to swap a motor into in the near future. I tried to do some searching but didn't find what I was looking for in terms of build suggestions based on the head/block combo I have. I'll give you guys as much insite as to what I'm looking to do as I can.
What I have:
I purchased a bare F54 block with crank and a bare P90 head. I have not had either checked yet in terms of cylinder condition, valve guides, etc.
Goals:
The car is my daily driver and I want to go the turbo route. It will be my first turbo'd car and build so I'm aiming around a safe but fun 250-300whp range to start. I'm not worried about emmisions so I know I want to have a pretty cleaned up intake manifold and overall as simple a setup as possible. I want to go distributorless. RELIABILITY (I'm a pretty aggresive driver so although I'm not looking for crazy power I want it be able to handle some weekend abuse etc). I know I would eventually like a custom equal length tubular manifold but we'll just start with the OEM one I guess.
My technical background:
I've been a Mercedes Benz tech for 4 years. I've already rebuilt my current motor in the Z when it spun a bearing a couple years back. So most of the build will be done by myself unless it's machine shop work.
Budget:
Exactly that. It's going to be a budget build. I understand I can't have all the best when were talking budget build but that's why I made the choice to build an L28ET. I was able to get the block crank and head for an unbeatable deal and I know it's a great motor.
I was searching for Austin Hoke's old build thread to use as somewhat of a guide because I had the pleasure of meeting him and his buddy Gabe, who has his old turbo L28 in his Z, at ZDayZ 2 years ago. And I got to take a ride in Gabe's Z and it put a smile on my face from ear to ear. So what I'm looking for from you guys is helpful suggestions on brands to use, engine management, order of building, turbo setup, etc.