n/a head on turbo block and rotating assembly?

[YungICY]

Hey guys, I'm getting ready to rebuild my 2.3 and I just came across a guy that is selling his freshly rebuilt turbo (merkur) block and rotating assembly for a reasonable price. I know the turbo pistons are going to have a lower compression and will almost be worthless power wise with a n/a head but can I shave the head down and make it worth my while? Also I should probably mention that I am planning on running a 280 comp cam in it. Also, this will be a n/a setup.

 

[turbo91xlt]

if you're gonna keep it strictly N/A don't bother with a 8:1 compression turbo short block. You'll make even less power then a stock N/A engine...

 

[Mikel89us]

If you shave .125-.150" off the head, you will get the compression up probably around 9.0-9.5:1 compression. Then you could use the .027" MLS head gasket sold by summit I believe, and get closer to 10:1. You can get the compression back up, I'm not sure how the pistons will promote ignition, but you can still make power.

 

[turbo91xlt]

or you could get an NA short block & shave the head for even more compression..

 

[YungICY]

I think that's the road in gonna take. I have two full NA motors and both need rebuilds. I'm just kinda hesitant about it cuz it'll be my first rebuild but the guy at the machine shop says these 2.3 are good beginner motors.