I have a mostly stock 96 sohc 2.0l. I am getting ready to do a motor rebuild cuz the head gasket is blown. I know I need new piston rings, so I was thinking about putting in a high performance piston instead. I was wondering what kind of pistons you would recommend and where to get them from. Also, what kind of power increase would I get and are there any other mods I should do while I have the motor torn apart. The only upgrades I have done to the car is headers and high flow cat, and a K & N air filter. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

Use dohc pistons. They give a good bump in compression for the price. A ported intake manifold and a larger throttle body. Head work would be helpful. Crower valve springs for better valve sealing in the head.