I’m going to start building my engine for a TT kit. My Goal is 500- 550 hp,
what would be better and cost effective a short block or long block?

Where would it be the best place to purchase a long block from?

 

i think i'm going to get a long block.

searching i found "build z motors" makes them but they dont list how much it goes for.
at sgp racing the long block goes for $6,350
where else can i get a long block. were is the best place to get it from?

 

BuiltZmotors does awesome work. Because I'm actually considering one of his engine packages, I flew out to New Mexico to meet with Todd (the owner) this Weds. Cool guy and extremely knowledgable. He really will go above and beyond for his customers. Go to Builtzmotors.com and call him. Define your goals with him and he will recommend you the perfect engine package (he won't oversell you something you won't need). Plus, he has the best turn around times man.

 

thanks alot, how much will they charge for a long block.

has anyone buy from forged performance

 

I bought a short block from Kyle at Import Parts Pro. He too is very knowledgeable and very easy to work with. Very good pricing. He made some recommendations which I followed and got everything I needed to complete the job. Looking back I almost wish I purchased a long block to make the install easier, but it was quite an experience figuring out timing and how the engine goes back together. If you've never done it before and you don't have a mechanic available to help with the rough parts (timing), I wouldn't recommend a short block. I wouldn't have traded the experience for the world , though.

BTW, there are a lot of vendors that ow have engine packages, so choose wisely.

Good Luck with your decision.

 

Thanks rrmedix

Yeah I don’t have much experience with putting an engine together that’s one of the reasons I’ll be getting a long block. From what I understand the long block comes ready to mount in the car. Or install the TT kit and get going.
I need to read way more on this subject.

Where can I find a manual on building the VQ35De for TT or how it’s put together, mounting, torque etc… like a factory manual for 06Z

 

You can go to the DIY section of the forums main page, then forced induction, then you will find my thread with tons of pics, which shows how I got my short block up and running...well almost up and running...I am still waiting for a clutch to complete the assembly.
Or simply click here...

https://my350z.com/forum/engine-drivetrain-and-forced-induction-diy/288630-assembly-of-my-new-built-short-block.html

This will give you an idea of what its like to work with a short block.
Not knocking the decision I made, saved some bucks. Actually if I paid someone to do what I just did, it no doubt would have cost me several thousands...A little knowledge goes a long way. Or the ability and interest to learn. This was my first engine build...ever! And I supplemented it with a TT install. Almost done.

Good Luck.

 

Oh yeah and get yourself a service manual. I bought a disc on ebay for like $10 and it covered everything. To print its about 500 pages, so I just printed the sections I needed and had Staples bind it into 1 big bible type book.
All of the torque specs are in there.

 

awesome thread

with the long block all i have to do is mount the turbo and apper part of motor, meaning the lower and upper manifold right? or ..

 

Plus transfer accessories (alternator, AC, power steering) and adjuster pulleys

 

Right, transfer the power steering, alternator, pulleys, A/C pump, plenum, upper, 2 lower portions, throttle body, your turbos obviously and maybe just a couple of things. like westpak stated...
That's it A lot less then what I had to do. I still recommend the service manual to torque the plenum and accessories down correctly. Its always a good thing to have. Good Luck. Ask if you have any further questions. This forum is absolutely the best for help with your Z problems.

 

If 500-550whp is your top goal, then an S1 Shortblock, and cams (at most) would be more than enough to get the job done.

Most of the major VQ35 shops sell shortblock and longblocks. Just call around and get some quotes. Happy to help.

Are you planning to self install, or shop install?

 

I want to do it my self but I’ve never done that much involved work. I’ve installed spacers, mrev 2, plenum, exhaust, intakes but nothing compares to getting the engine out and back in.
I’m getting the vq35de manual…
Now the TT kits come with installation instructions??? I mean as long as I have a instructions to follow I’ll be fine.

If I do the install my self I’ll save a few thousands—that I can spend in clutch, flywheel etc..

 

Better do some research, the Greddy Kit I just purchased has what I would consider no directions at all. All it says, is to wrap your fuel lines with heat shield material and your harness, otherwise, not even so much as a picture to judge your work. It was absolutely pathetic. The Turbonetics kit was very detailed and precise down to the last bolt. I can only speak for those 2 and forewarn you that it was not "easy", but don't expect any help from the Greddy. You will be on your own. I mean a lot of it is common sense, but if you are not familiar with how the turbo set-ups go, it can be very frustrating.
However, if you have some experience and are handy with tools, you should be OK, as I was. Just a word to the wise.

Good Luck.

 

I was thinking in getting the greddy with intercooler. I thinking installing it is a matter of finding the write way of piping or matching to the way it’s supposed to look.
Do you know if the greddy will have problems with the steering knuckle

I downloaded the service manual. It has tons of info

 

I think for the most part, (and I'm not an expert) most folks that have trouble with the steering knuckle are those that attempt the install without removing the engine. If you have the chance to remove it and install the turbos outside the car, if goes right in place very easily. Major advantage.
This also makes securing all of the nuts and bolts much easier. Otherwise with the motor and tranny left in place, you are asking for a lot of damaged knuckles.

 

You shouldn't have an issue with the steering knuckle and the Greddy kit, the turbo should clear it, the APS turbo has a clearance issue.

As for trying the engine build, read the manual many times first, even though all of the information is in the manual it is not a step by step from beginning to end, it is broken up in sections so you have to know which sections to do in which order, it is not too hard if you are thorough

 

As for now I have saved 10gs, so I need to save more. I think it’s easier if I get the long block for installations purposes. Also if down the line I want more hp I’ll be safe.

 

So whats the verdict, is this another DIY attempt or a drop off and pick up effort?

 

I have to save more

I’ll get a long block ready to drop in. I’ll do the rest my self. Maybe you can come through then. where in NY do you live?