Need info on how and where to source a good powertrain
 

I'll make this my newbie technical post because it's my first big hurdle: finding a good source. Before I start though, I'd like to list my goals to help others know what I'm looking for.

-My BHP goals are anything above 300. I would be happy with just edging 300. (The bug would probably bite me late on though) 350 would be stellar and 400 would be probably be expensive and a little crazy in a 2000lb car but definitely enjoyable.

-We have full shop access and a competent welder so fabrication isn't an issue. (Motivation on the other hand....)

-A lightweight flywheel and good clutch are at the top of the buy list, as well as some exhaust components since it's going into a different chassis (i.e downpipe, and other pieces)

-The car doesn't need provisions for power steering or A/C (lighter front load, less spinning accesorries, possibly lightweight pulleys for the rest? Not necessary though)

-Fuel will be delivered via a cell and adequate pump so fuel upgrades will only be needed engine side.

-99% chance that there will have to be a custom FMIC made since there are no openings in the hood for the top mount of a FC.

-We have a spare Apex SAFC-II lying around which could be contributed but I'm open to alternatives. I'm not even sure that it would accomplish the level of fuel and timing control that will be possibly required.

-I plan on taking it apart and doing either a mild or extended port.

-Any details I missed? Feel free to comment.

Since I basically just have a body I need a complete engine, transmission and wiring harness. Car-part.com doesn't even have any engine listings from junkyards near where I live (Boise, Idaho area) and I don't think they even listed any in the state which mean I'd have to try and source a good one from a different state without even seeing it first and making sure that it's in decent condition. *not beat up looking and needing an immediate and costly rebuild* That leaves me with two options. Trying to source one from a local private source or buying one from either ebay or a JDM importer.

I don't know what engine would be the best starting point either. Obviously the 13B-REW has a higher starting hp of 255 and immediately puts me closer to my goals. the 13B-Turbo motor has a little less plumbing but is older and as such probably subject to higher mileage. What are people's thoughts on this? Is there another, possibly more reliable method to getting what I need?

13BT is a fine choice and with minor upgrades will give you 250-270HP on the stock turbo. Go to an inexpensive aftermarket hybrid turbo and 300HP is no problem.

Have you considered the for-sale section of this website? It may be just a crap-shoot as purchasing a j-spec though.

A reputable J-spec dealer (JapanLA on this forum) will stand behind their products.

Hey thanks for the reply man! I'll have to check him out. I don't suppose they have a website as well do they?

*edit* You wouldn't happen to mean Japan2LA would you?

This will also be my first foray into tuning software also so there's going to be a rather steep learning curve there as well!

My ears where burning

I have the complet Jspec swap in inventory now..

What year is your car?

Haha that's good I suppose!

It's a 1974 Fiat Sport Coupe. Basically a heart and brain transplant operation haha:biggrin:

How much would you charge for everything? On the importer websites I've seen lists anywhere between $1250 with free shipping and $1750+200 for shipping. I'm going to open it up and do some porting on it as well as a small rebuild while it's apart but I don't want a cheap junker motor that's going to need a $1600 full master rebuild either! Haha

If I'm going to go with a 13B-Turbo I'd want an S5 as well. From my browsing I'm led to believe they have the strongest transmissions.