[Jjaeger240]

The KA-T v. SR Debate

To read more, please visit this thread: http://240sxforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=90964

Originally Posted by S14Silvia

Mods please sticky this. I'm starting to see why zilvia has a militant mindset. It's getting pretty ridiculous seeing all these stupid "Should I go ka-t or sr?" threads in the beginner's forum so I decided to start this thread. Others with valuable information feel free to chime in and add any useful information.

Should I go ka-t or sr? (Assumes a shop will do the work)

1. If you have a high mileage ka you had better consider a rebuild: $700 to pull and replace the motor, $1500 for machine shop labor, parts (pistons $400, rods $400, new water pump $50, oil pump $250, head gasket $200, head studs $150, etc.)

2. ka-t ecu tuning $500 from jwt or enthalpy

We're currently at $4150.

3. New t3/t4 Turbo $400, intake $50, rev hard manifold $150, down pipe $150, ssac exhaust $250, ebay FMIC $250, deatschwerks 550cc injectors $250, radiator $300, boost gauge $100, turbo timer $75

total $6125


SR:

1. Front clip from a low mileage 180sx $2400, labor $750,

2. greddy down pipe $125, ebay fmic $250, intake $50, radiator $300, boost gauge $100, turbo timer $75, ssac exhaust $250,

total $4300

I'm thinking from the top of my head. Please correct me or chime in.

Originally Posted by USDM Rice

Hmm, this seems kinda biased. With the parts you listed, the KA would be more powerful. With a built ka block like that, it'd handle up to 500hp while a stock sr20 would max at 350hp. Try setting it up so the parts list is for a goal of 350hp which is the max both engines can handle w/o rebuilds (given that they're in good condition) They're cheaper alternative to ROM tunes (megasquirt/biki/safc/etc.) Turbo timers aren't necessary.

SR20DET-
Pros:
-JDM Tyte
-Already turboed from the factory
-Better aftermarket support
-Lighter
-Better high-end
-Easier swap

Cons:
-Electrical work
-You have no idea what the condition of the engine is in
-Replacement parts are harder to find

KA24D/ET-
Pros:
-Low-end Torque
-Engines/parts are easier to find
-Cheaper
-No harness work

Cons:
-Custom work needed (oil bung, downpipe)
-Heavier
-Harder to do/additional knowledge needed