Im after a bit of advice for a mate of mine that’s building a MK2 escort rally car and is planning on running a 16xe on carbs. I was wondering what you would suggest as a solid build to a decent spec. He has a x16xe and a z16xe (i think from an Astra) so the choice of two heads. its my understanding that the blocks are the same. if i list some questions its probably the easiest way.
1. x16xe or z16xe head
2. do you advise any mods to the timing belt idle pulley or bottom pulley.
3. do you require an oil cooler
4. what cam profile would you recommend
5. what pistons and rods do you recommend.
6. what head mods would you suggest e.g porting, valve size, breathers etc
7. do you gain a lot from porting head or would high comp pistons, rods, cams, carbs and ignition management be good enough?
8. any other mods, suggestions he should think about.
Any help would be great. He’s not after an all singing all dancing 16xe as there is a budget. He’s just after a reliable (200hp there about) engine to have some fun in the forest.