What do you guys think it will take to build up the 5.4 to handle 20+ pounds of boost when some of the new aftermarket superchargers come out? What are the best rods and pistons and how much do you think it will cost for parts only?

 

It will take more than good parts. Although you do need to start with top quality components. The assembly is every bit as important as the parts being assembled. Fit, finish and balance must be perfect.

 

Hummm bulletproof eh? Well break out the kevlar and hope you can work that stuff well. But im not sure how kevlar would stand up to the heat. Or maybe Titanium....

But really, you would have to have some custom made pistons, Manley or Eagle rods, and a stronger crank. Then have it ballanced and blue printed.

 

HI!.. I'll let you know when my SHM 5.4 is done next year. With a MAGNACHARGER 12PSI and a 250H.P nos shot it should be making around 750-800H.P (FLYWHEEL).

 

*Lightning Boy bites his tonge*

 

Has anyone ever shot their engine? Just wondering...would you stand close to it or far away, where would you aim...

Spike

 

Neal your nuts 250H.P. NOS Shot, holly *****.

I guess I am nuts too, I am going to pull out my perfectly good engine this winter, and will be putting some new pistons and rods in. I am not going to be adding any more boost than I have now, I am just afraid of our week rods. I figure if I pay a little now it will be cheeper than having to replace a whole engine due to a rod blowing through the side of the block.

I am happy with the 2# lower and 1# upper pulley, and running 12.4 is fast enough for me.

 

FWIW, our cranks are good for over 800hp. This is what I have been told by SVT and various gear heads.

Sal, could you please comment on this and let us know what you used on your new motor.Thanks!!!!!

 

Don't start it and it will handle the boost fine.

Spike - depends, if your trying to kill the engine it would be easier to shoot in the bottom because the oil pan isn't thick and the bullet would go through and damage the internals

 

Nuclear Core Meltdown.....post some pics after the pass...lol

 

JR granatelli runs a 5.4 motor with stock block, stock crank, and stock navigator heads. He's running pro. 5.0 also, make low 7 second passes all day

 

Which is to say that he does NOT use the stock rods, or pistons. He also o-rings the block/heads for that thumper he uses.

Do you think we should o-ring for the 20lbs?

 

Ok, it sounds like pistons and rods are a must but who makes the best rods and pistons and what do they cost? Is there anything else that would be a good idea to replace while the engine is apart? Would it be better to go with a lower compression for the added boost?

 

Is this a street or strip application? When you say "best pistons and rods"...you wouldn't want to use the "best" on the street, b/c hardcore race parts could never standup to the continuous, daily use.

When I fortify my L this winter, I plan on using Manley rods, 9:1 forged pistons (I don't know the brand, yet), ARP engine bolts, polished stock crank, matched head/cam combo, and long tubes. A Ford tech friend of mine is going to help me, and him and I will do everything but the balancing/blueprinting of the shortblock. I'm even going to port the heads myself.

The nightmare begins in 4 weeks....

 

With this...nothings bulletproof

JE is making custom pistons for 5.4's now too. SCPerformance