I plan on putting a turbo in my car in the near future, however I have 107k miles on it so I know if I want to get any real power out of it I'll need to do some rebuilding. I was thinking of going with new pistons, either at 9:1 compression or 10.5:1, new piston rings, block guard, and head gasket.

What other internals would I need to strengthen my future turbocharged car and which compression should I go with, 9 or 10.5?

 

how much boost are you planning to run? Since you have so many miles,you might think about an engine swap? Or just replace almost everything in the eninge since it has 107k miles. Search and you will find answers, i hate beaing told that but it works. I read about alot of stuff just by searching. I would got 9.5:1 as the highest unles you are planning to run low boost. If you plan to run 12 or around ther, go to 8:1. Hope it helps

 

I have a related question, how much power can the stock D16 pistons handle? I know the rods are tooth picks, but what about the pistons? Can they handle 250whp with Hondata? Thanks.

 

i'd put new springs, retainers, and racing valves - dished pistons - eagle rods. it depends how much boost you want to run anything over 8-10 psi i'd say definately beef up the internals(don't forget about the cams, fuel systems, and hondata)

 

I would go around 9-9.5:1 on the compression. U need to remember that the lower you go on the compression the more your gonna lose on your low end torque and spool time, and the higher the compression the more u'll be likely to have detonation. U need to find a compression ration that compromisses both of those. and if your rebuilding for turbo rods are a must

 

rods, pistons 9.8:1 CR (tune, tune, tune), sleeved, built head ie springs, retainers, etc.