Rebuild Part Recommendations

[231T]

I have a 1983 231 turbo from a T-Type Regal currently stripped, machined, and awaiting new parts.

I have an idea of what I want for the cam, crank, and gaskets, but otherwise, I am not sure what parts I should get. My main problem at the moment is namely the valve train.

Block Casring Number: 25506397

Head Casting Number: 25506293

Below is a list of all the sites, parts/kits, part numbers, and manufacturers that I have saved so far.

Crankshaft: TA Performance, 4340 Forged Crankshaft, TA_V1627 (taperformance.com)

Camshaft/Lifters: Comp Cams, '78-'87 Grand National 231 High Energy Flat Tappet Complete Cam Set, GH110953D (classicindustries.com)

Bearing/Ring Set: ENGINETECH, Engine Rebuild Kit for '79-'85 RWD 231, RCB231AP (titanengines.com)

Connecting Rods/Wrist Pins: I am looking at TA Perfomance for these parts, but I am uncertain because I don't know which stroke I should use for a properly speced engine.

Additionally, I have been looking at uprated pistons to fit my block, which was bored .030 over due to scratches in the cylinder walls. I have been looking at D.S.S. Racing forged pistons, but have not decided on which set due to compression concerns. Any help with this would be greatly appreciated.

My last parts to sort out are the valves themselves, and with this being my first real engine build, I an not familiar with the market leaders nor the cons. Suggestions are most appreciated.

Overall, I am looking to due all forged internals in the bottom end, even though I don't intend to push crazy power through this 40 year-old engine. I want this engine to be able to outlive me and still be a fun, reliable, streetable motor to put into a Regal eventually. Any expertise is welcome, as I come seeking wisdom.

 

[WE2Regal]

That engine only makes 180 HP. A stock rebuild would be fine. If the turbo crank that was in it is in good shape, use it (or get it polished or turned if necessary) along with the stock rods and new pistons. If I was going to splurge anywhere on that engine, it would be on a 206/206 roller cam.

 

[TexasT]

You will certainly have a pile of money in it with that list of parts.

You really need the pistons in hand before boring or at least before the hone job for a "good" fit.
Since you are already way past four digit money a nice set of adjustable roller rockers, fancy shafts and a custom set of pushrods is where I would be. And at this point I'd be in on a set of aluminum heads for good measure.

As far as valves and springs I'd be talking to who ever you are going to have set up these heads, do the valve job and set the installed height and such. That way if something does go wrong it is on them. Or be buying fully assembled heads.

Not sure what head gaskets will come in that rebuild kit but you might do some studying up on that too. No fun to change a head gasket on a fairly fresh engine. No fun at all.

 

[MikeS]

Define crazy power? I’d go with stock everything except for forged pistons and a small cam upgrade. Is e85 an option? If so raise compression if you don’t intend to push a lot of boost.

 

[TurboTGuy]

That's a lot of money to put into a .30 over block, but that's just my opinion.