I have dedcided to start a build log. Been wanting to do this for quite a while. Here is the short story version: Been lapping this glh with the BMW club for about 10 years on and off. My last build was with an 8 valve pulling 300 hp/350tq at the wheels. Last track session with it was a blast. After the 3rd session I was low on fuel. Went to fuel it and when I came back on track, I was having fun with a BMW M with a V10 He held me back for 3 laps before finaly giving me the point by. We came up on slower traffic (Mustang). He did an illegal pass. Evedently he was upset. On that lap, I hear it start to ping! The day was getting a little hotter and I suspect the fuel was cheaper. My runs in the morning where harder and did not have any issues. Got off and started yapping with a few guys and suddenly my next run was up. Wanted to turn down the boost. F..k it! The M3 was lining up. Got behind him. And off we went. We passed a bunch of cars until we broke free and had a clear run. Lasted about 5 laps before he gave in. Ego is a was big thing for him. I saw my buddys up ahead with a Caymen S and a 911. Decided to catch them and play.The car was pinging a WOT. There was five minutes left BOOM! And I guess ego was big thing for me too! (or enthousiasm). What a rooky move on my behalf. Limped back to the pits. Opened hood and there was oil and prestone all over. I had been punishing this engine for years. No oil burning or puffs, even at start up or downshifts on the track. An amazingly professionally built motor ruined by a stupid move.
After that, opened it up.Piston and head had suffered. Do I rebuild a new head get new pistons?????? Thought and thought …etc.
Todays cars are becoming harder and harder to keep up with. The brakes and handling packages are just crazy. Mustangs with 550+ hp with a track pack. The BMW M cars, or even the new miata/fiat with Brembo’s off the show room are becoming hard to beat. With so much go fast R&D readily available. Makes you think, and think hard.
Read a few threads and decided to go with a 2.4
Here are a few pics of his glory days and of the wound:
I'll get pics of the 2.4 up soon