Lotus Esprit V8TT Build-up
Currently rebuilding the engine in my '97 Lotus Esprit V8 twin turbo, had a turbocharger come apart on the road course which lead to some nasty piston damage. Thought some beyonders would be interested in the rebuild thread, along with some of the modifications being done.
Engine Build:
JE forged pistons set 9.0:1 SCR (up from factory 8.0:1)
ARP head stud set
Factory gasket set c/w MLS head gaskets
New racing rod bearings custom made (factory ones are too soft)
Ported cylinder heads c/w multi-angle valve job
Turbochargers being upgraded from T25 sleeve bearing units to GT25 ball bearing CHRA's with factory compressor and turbine housings machined to match.
Engine management is the factory ECU with stage 3 chip, adding a AEM FIC-8 piggyback controller to manage the larger injectors and allow two fuel/timing/boost maps to be run depending on if the water/meth injection is functioning. This setup is used very effectively in the well publicized HPF E46 M3 turbo systems. (not the FIC but the map for meth)
Larger injectors will be run as well as a custom water to air intercooler system. These cars come from the factory with no intercooling as they run modest boost levels and the factory ECU's are super restrictive. The main reason is the transmissions and driveshafts are not up to the task. This will be addressed next with some major upgrades.
The ultimate goal is to be competitive on the road course with the likes of a F430. Tall order.
Some pictures of the build to date:
Flat plain crankshaft
Cylinders look new
Factory intake ports before porting
Factory exhaust port before porting
Exhaust to manifold ports before porting
AEM FIC-8 wired into the factory harness
Factory piston vs JE high compression forged
Should be a fun build
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