The engine is built. It is a pretty straightforward build, but we did hit a few snags using some of the EJ20G JDM parts. We used the Ej22T head gaskets. The coolant passages on the 20G and 22T are identical. We went with the 22's because they were cheaper. I see the bore difference as a non-issue. Guy have been using Ej25 gaskets w/25 heads on 22's for some time.
The hang ups occurred when trying to use the EJ20G up-pipe and turbo. The bracket for the up-pipe drops down about 10mm and will not mount to the EJ22T heads. But if you use an EJ22T up-pipe this is a non issue. Because it was the only VF-10 I had that was in good shape, we had to switch it over to the USDM uppipe. This involved cutting a rusted bolt off the EJ20G uppipe.
Problem #2, the EJ20G Vf-10 on the compressor side where it feeds to the manifold is clocked about 10 degrees differently than the USDM. We are going to run a custom silicone pipe off the turbo to the back end of the stock intake, that we are going to cut short and still mate up to the throttle body.
The last trick was the coolant lines. The JDM engine places the turbo coolant box on the passenger side. The pair of lines interferes with dipstick. We just cut the bracket a little bit to make it clear the lines. Again, if you use a stock USDM coolant tank and lines, this is a non-issue.
This engine should be in the car next week. It is using all stock exhaust manifolds and down pipe. etc. For the short term, we are going to run it non-intercooled, on a stock 1.8l on wastegate boost. Should be a fun little car. I never ran the hard numbers, but I think we are in the ballpark of 9.5:1 CR. Should be a beastily little ride...
