Head job, while we're in there...

[e30slidewayz]

I'm installing a new head from Myster-e for my M20 a few weekends from now. I'm trying to put a list of everything I need to install it as well as random shit I should take care of while I'm in there. What would you suggest?

[nny403]

What's the end goal and why are you changing the cylinder head?

[e30slidewayz]

Moar power, eventually going with the MAF and longtube headers. It's daily driven right now, but it won't be my daily for too much longer. I will probably end up making it a stroker. I'll definately be changing out the timing belt, various seals, etc. I'm also installing some larger injectors. I'm just trying to think about all the little odds and ends I should take care of while I'm in there to freshen it up and make it solid. Also thinking about a water pump as well.

[nny403]

Are you serious about a stroker? Or are you leaning towards forced induction? It's going to be a different story for either option.

A turbo will likely be able to offer best performance, but if you are going to stroke it that's a different story. Stroking is a big undertaking. Suggest leaving it be, get ARP head studs and cometic head gaskets. This leaves you with a strong bottom end.

[The Humjet]

When you say stroker are you talking about a proper stroker with m52b28 crank, eta rods and 325i/custom pistons that's a good combination if you don't plan of going FI. Or do you mean "stroker" as in eta/seta block swap? Don't bother with that if you already have an m20b25.
Also my advice is to replace all the wear and tear items you come across when putting the head on e.g water pump, timing belt, worn hoses, fan belts, t stat etc.

[nny403]

+1 A good stroker will cost more than a turbo setup and you still need exhaust manifolds, intake manifolds and ECU to start with. The head swap alone simply won't do it. Google search the various build options it isn't likely to be inexpensive for what amounts to a negligible power increase.

[sayed ali]

A good stroker will cost more than a turbo setup and you still need exhaust manifolds, intake manifolds and ECU to start with. The head swap alone simply won't do it. Google search the various build options it isn't likely to be inexpensive for what amounts to a negligible power increase.

^ +1

turbo motor with stock internals - oringed block - ms pnp - etc..
will give you more power than a GOOD/FULL stroker build like what guys said

[e30slidewayz]

Alright, I've been on the fence about stroking or going turbo. Think I've decided on the turbo setup. I will most likely happen at the beginning of next year, but in the mean time I want to get this head on. It's an m20b25. Along with the head I think I'm going to order a new lower temp thermostat, thermostat housing gasket, various hoses, intake manifold gasket, exhaust manifold gasket, head bolts, head gasket, spark plugs, timing belt w/ tensionor, cap and rotor, oil return o-rings, 19# injectors, and cylinder head locating dowels. Think that should cover it all. Anything I'm missing?

[jlevie]

New OE copper plated exhaust manifold nuts and header nuts.

Unless you know that they have been recently replaced, radiator, expansion tank, cap, and all hoses.

[Myster-E]

I'd recommend sticking with the stock temp thermostat, engine runs better.