Thoughts on MAG pistons?

[stevex]

Hi Chaps,

Eventually going to rebuild the motor is the long term plan. I was thinking of getting some Wiseco pistons and a standalone as long term plans and upping the boost slightly in hopes to get a bit more power (230+ HP / ft lb would be nice).

I've spoken to a few people, and several have said stock pistons are good for 250 all day. Just wondered what your thoughts were on here? Is a piston upgrade to forged really needed for sub 250/250 output?

How are the quality on the MAG pistons compared to OE (assuming comparing them to facelift late 2006 pistons with additional drain holes).


Thanks!

[Carolyn]

Excellent.  Better than OEM.

[1979scotte]

Don't even bothers unless you are looking at 260bhp plus.
Generally it is thought that the engine and gearbox are good up to 250 ft-lb of torque.
Although some people have pushed 290bhp from stock engines.
If you want big power say 300+ you are better off doing a 2zz swap.
They can make 350bhp and still not be making enough torque to fry the gearbox.

FYI my turbo made 235 on a good day and that was pretty damn quick.
It was up there with vx220 turbo and Elise R in terms of power to weight.

[stevex]

Thanks both, cool. Looks like I may just opt for MAG then and be done with it.

235 is nice, if I had between 230-250 hp / ft lb would be more than happy, I think close to 250hp per ton is the magic number for me. That would bring the MR2 close to my daily driver and would be plenty.

So forged is probably overkill then, to be honest, I don't want the car to have crazy power, just figured may as well make it so it can run a little more if I am going to take it apart rather than keeping it the same  s:) s:)


Thanks for the replies.

[JoeCool]

Excellent.  Better than OEM.

I am strongly considering a MAG rebuilt 2zz to replace my poorly sick engine. I know you said they are good: I was mainly concerned because it appears they use no-name/aftermarket pistons and possibly some other bits.

Can I ask what experience you have of their work and parts quality?

I haven't got time or space (or skills or money) to rebuild an engine, and an £800 eBay wrecker engine is a Pandoras box.... Would you personally be happy fitting a MAG engine as I intend to do?

It appears the best middle ground option if I can allay my concerns about parts provenance and quality.

[Carolyn]

I've had excellent experiences with MAG.  Even spoken with Gurjeet on the phone, he's a big fan of the 2ZZ engine.

I'd be happy with one of his engines.  Don't forget to factor in the shipping and customs. (I think it amounts to VAT at 20%).

The pistons I got (for 1ZZ) are better, stronger, castings than the Toyota ones. Better finish, eight oil holes with overlaps and Teflon coated.  I was very pleasantly surprised by just how nice they are.

If you should have a problem, he is good for his warranty.  They recondition low mileage engines from Japan.  So the engine will have been a good one to start with.

[1979scotte]

I would think there would be a minimum of 400 quids worth of tax and shipping on top of MAG prices for a 2zz.

[JoeCool]

There are indeed, but the eBay price osnt the best price he does... If you have dollars to spend it's somewhat cheaper. Like I say, I'm exploring options.