How much horsepower can the stock bottom end handle?

[Catbox_95]

Well, as the title asks, how much horsepower can the stock bottom end of a 1998 4g63 handle (safely)? I'm about to go to the dyno for a tune on a recent bolt-on build. It is a speed density setup now running on e85, if that matters.

I've been searching the threads and have read 450 hp, to 530 whp etc. Just wanted to re-open the discussion. I've heard that the stock rods are the weak link. If so, has anyone found this limit?

 

[renovatdkitchen]

Hasn't this topic been beaten beyond the grave?

Also, yes. Check your compression to know how healthy your engine is before the dyno.

 

[Outdorsman]

There is no limit until your engine blows, I've seen a stock 6 bolt hold for 600whp, however maintaining it at that level would be foolish. 450 is pushing the limits if you daily drive it, keep it lower than 450. This topic has been beaten. Just make sure to have proper supporting mods and you should be golden. The rods are indeed the weak link, thats why many go 1g rods with 2g pistons combo for a budget build.

 

[Black95TSIawd]

Good oil, ZERO KNOCK, i mean zero, not a few knock counts, a good tune that doesn't have excessive timing advance (passed MBT), and proper maintenance, I give 425whp a long healthy life.

 

[importracr317]

Not to contribute to a dead-horse topic, but .....

Adam from Devo tuning once told me the stock 7 bolt bottom end was good for 550 whp....for 2 pulls on the dyno.

It's a highly subjective figure, but I'm sure the "stock 7 bolt DSM horsepower record" is just a google search away.

 

[Catbox_95]

I'm sure this topic had been beaten to the ground, but I haven't been on here in a long time and doing a simple search didn't show any current results, so I wanted some fresh ideas.

I'm not looking to break any records or achieve unrealistic goals. Just wanting a few educated opinions. If I can get close to 400 whp with a safe IDC and no knock, I'll be happy.