1999 2G Eclipse GSX 5spd Restoration

[DrSonsy]

This is the Build Thread for 1999 2G Eclipse GSX 5spd Restoration. Reply below.

 

[DrSonsy]

Its been a while guys but I've made some progress. Removed the engine & transmission then started the motor tear down. I already knew the timing belt snapped (thanks to previous owner) & that there would be some bent valves. When I finally removed the cylinder head I was in for a surprise... Not only did the valves hit the pistons, the valve heads blew right through cyl 2 & 3! I found one of the valve heads in my oil pan gheesh (pictures are attached.) Needless to say the cylinder head is toast but the block surprisingly came away relatively unscathed (minor damage to the block deck surface on the corner of cyl 2 but shouldn't be a problem after boring then decking the surface.) Everything else from the short block looks good (pistons & rods are obviously toast) but the cylinder walls & crankshaft are in great shape. One thrust bearing was on the brink of death about to crank walk this engine.

Now, before I start my build I would love to get some input from you guys. My original plan was to go G25 660 with front mount cooler goal of 400-500hp. I am starting to rethink that. These 2G GSX's especially 5spd manuals are getting crazy hard to find that haven't been completely molested. I see 2g GSX's selling for 40-60K at auction with relatively low miles completely stock. My new idea for the build is to basically do a restoration to make the car look brand new. Obviously a stock GSX isn't much fun so I was thinking maybe a evo3 16g with a custom side mount intercooler so that I could have the power to have fun while maintaining a factory appearance. What to you guys think? Thanks!