Up until today, I've been planning to eventually do a V7 swap when my warranty runs out (I have a 2002 WRX, btw). However, I've been thinking that maybe I should just modify my USDM motor so I can keep any performance parts I add up until then (exhaust, EM, turbo parts, etc.).

My main concern is strength of the drivetrain. I want something that would be very reliable at, at most, 300whp; probably a little below that. I know this topic has probably been beat to death, but I am curious about peoples opinions on the CHEAPEST way to reach this goal.

I'm convinced that JDM is not the best way to go, or USDM Sti for that matter. I just want something that's strong, reliable, and compatible w/ USDM parts. Any ideas or suggestions are appreciated. Thanks

-E

ps: I didn't know exactly what the best forum would be to post this in, so if any mods think this would do better in another forum, feel free to move it.

It will cost just about as much to swap in the V7 motor as it would upgrading it. You already have a decent 2.0 engine, just upgrade the tranny. I would get supporting mods such as fuel pump, injectors, and engine management. After swapping the tranny for a STi of RA one, I would get the block sleeved or even bored out then have it built with upgraded Camshafts, cams, pistons, turbo, and have that thing rev up to 9500.

2.5 block and RA gears and a 18G and you have reliable 300 whp.

Thanks guys. I don't know a whole lot about swapping in blocks, so here's a few questions: If I decided to, say, bore out my stock block and make it into a stroker, what type of EM is recommended for this type of setup? I'm guessing Cobb wouldn't be enough. Also, if I got a 2.5 shortblock with beefed up internals and such, would I need to change the heads also? I know it would be a good idea, but is it absolutely neccessary?

Also, I know that with a 6-speed tranny and V7 swap, it's recommended that you also swap out the rear end. Are there any options other than buying a V7 differential, etc. Specifically, what parts is it essential to replace in order to handle 300whp?

Thanks,

-E

cheapest thing u can do.

EJ22T block
pistons, rods.
Heads (98RS, phace1 i belive)
Valves
port and polish


thats right there would be about 3K...and should be good up to 450+, redline of 8500+. and all for about fraction of the cost...also u wont need to do any wiring or mess w/ new ecu's.and all u would need is engine managment.

my .o2

snowman, he has a WRX, I doubt he would want to put in RS heads.

he was just asking for a cheap altern. to a V7 engine....and that is one, those heads will outflow the WRX heads. by switching them in he will get a benefit.

a cheep alturn if you cold find one woudl be a jdm ej205 .. higher compression and avcs

but then ur still looking at around 5K w/ tranny, or 3500-4K just for engine.