EA81 build.

tim_81coupe · Post by **tim_81coupe** » Sun Dec 18, 2005 2:34 pm

Hi all!
At this point it looks like I'm going to have an engine rebuild done on my daily driver sedan. It hasn't even hit 100,000km's yet!

I want to know if there's anything to pay particular attention to in the rebuild. I wouldn't mind a bit of a performance gain but nothing silly, the main goal really is economy here. I'm thinking of fitting EA71 pistons but at this point that's the only non-standard item on the agenda. The whole motor will be coming apart, I want a rebore, maybe out to 20 thou or so.

This motor is mated to a 3 speed slushomatic, so a bit of extra low down torque wouldn't go astray as the gearbox hates downshifting.

I will be following the standard "Baron" EA performance procedure in addition to the build. The MSD coil will be ordered during this week.

BaronVonChickenPants · Post by **BaronVonChickenPants** » Sun Dec 18, 2005 4:26 pm

If you're going to that much effort I'd put in a cam while your at it.

There was a recommended profile on the old board, regretting not saving it now.

The only thing holding me back from putting in a cam is the need to pull down the engine to do it.

Also look for some post 1984 heads with the larger valves apparently glassbeading can make a big difference too.

Thats what I'd be doing if I was rebuilding an EA81 anyway.

Jordan.

subanator · Post by **subanator** » Tue Dec 20, 2005 12:33 am

Tim I remember somewhere reading on this board that reboring these engines is overstated, as its standard practice for engine rebuilders doing this, but Jonno pointed out with his rebuild that checking the bore usually just calls for a hone and rings, bearings and seals.

Look through this guide for cams and profiles for EA81
http://www.tighecams.com.au/cars.htm

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Tue Dec 20, 2005 4:29 pm

My EA81 build (with 3AT tranny - 1982 GLf Automatic) will follow these specs:

JHH head/cam/dyno package
32/36 Weber
2.25 exhaust
EA71 pistons
Accel Supercoil

I think building the 3AT for a compromise of top and bottom is a good idea - remember, it's sitting on 4000 rpm at 110 kph.

If you were after a Tighe i've heard some good things about the "Rally" grind. 207 degrees at 50 thou . . . hell yes.

steptoe · Post by **steptoe** » Sat Dec 24, 2005 3:50 pm

begin to suspect something not correct re pistons and the 'variety' available.

when I rebuilt my old EA81 the pistons came in a box with label stating pistons for EA71/EA81 I did not measure or compare with old. They were flat tops anyway. 40 thou oversize = 1.0mm . Made in Taiwan jaa or jja brand or sumptin similar.

do not run anti freeze/coolant until about 1000 km after rebuild to allow gaskets to seal better

My cam grind is 16/56 . think it was .235" lift
Watson Race Cams , Sydney did not wanna go any wilder from experience with hills and suby freaks and big tyres - become breathless - the engine , not the driver !

AndrewT · Post by **AndrewT** » Sat Dec 24, 2005 11:40 pm

I rekon you should slip an N/A EJ into it.

- Huge performance increase
- Still rock solid reliable (keep the motor bog stock to retain reliability)
- Modern EFI system - should have similar fuel economy to a 20+ year old carby system.
- Easy conversion (easier than rebuilding a motor).
- Cost probably not a huge amount more than a full EA81 rebuild.

EJ22? (been heaps forsale lately at good prices)
EJ18?