ORIGINAL: Bryches

I have been planning on building my 01 SE up to 300WHP, bottom and top end rebuilds, high boost, Megasquirt, axles, LSD, etc, etc, the works...but I am beginning to realize that the fact is it's going to take considerable time to build the knowledge base I need - learning the backgrond of the MS and how to tune it, carefully rebuilding the engine (haven't rebuilt one before), not to mention how much needs to be upraded to handle the power such as new axles and an LSD. Then theres the problem of the extensive work, I would have to either bring tools to school or drive 3 hours home to work on it in the garage - this creates big inconveniences for a daily driver. Especially if I can't get it running to come back for work...and I know I wont rebuild the engine in anywhere near 2-3 days. So this plan doesn't look too feasible, it needs some changes. I know it was a little overboard in the first place, but I say dream big, but do your homework.

So the problem is that the original plan won't work in the time frame I'd like, but I still want to have some fun- I don't want to stay stock. And I'd really like a turbo...so here's what I havecome up with (brainstorming):

- Hahn stage II kit from Modern Performance
- Different boost controller and BOV - run it at 6 - 8 psi

- crank scraper and windage tray

- crane 12cam and adjustable cam gear (do i need the titanium valve springs?, can I replace the cam without removing the head?) Yes, you can keep the cylinder head on to replace the cam...but I would suggest changing the headgasket and timing belt anyways. You dont need the titanium valve springs if your only going with the Crane 12, save some money and buy the Magnum Valve Springs.

- SRT exhaust or something similar

- Ignition - what are my ignition control options? I need to be able to retard the timing Your using MS for fuel,.so just use MS for ignition control as well.

- Replace the timing belt and headgasket (should I?) the motor has 75k on it Yes, replace both.

- assorted gauges - afr, oil pressure, etc to keep an eye on the motor

- If possible take it to a dyno and start at low boost and increase between runs to make sure the wheel torque is at a safe level A good idea, tuning is the most important part of the entire process, besides buying good quality parts.

Any thoughts? Are there any other little things I should look out for, such as the timing belt? Any particular leaks, etc, that are common to the 2nd gen?

This plan eliminates having to rebuild the motor and send out the block, learning everything about the MS, etc. And all the work should be able to be done in a few frustrating weekends. It wont be as fast as I had originally hoped, but I should be able to put a frown on the face of cobolt SS drivers and hang with stock SRT 4s - maybe ~ 200WHP ? This way I can have some fun now, while in the meantime learning some things about the MS and engine building etc. in my freetime, and then I can make upgrades as I am readyfor them.
Thanks for any help.