Hey guys and gals! Buying a new piston, and I thought I'd get some info from you before I make my decision. I'm looking for something to allow for high-revs and plan on racing this summer with it. I have an '87 Lt250R, with motor mods such as ported carb,FMFpipe ram valve, K&N. Any input as to what worked and didn't for you, and anyone who has raced with good experience with their piston would help. Thinking of either Wiseco pro-lite or Pro-x Piston. Thanx
.....Freddie

 

You've listed two types of pistons, the Wiseco- a forged piston, and the Pro-X, which is cast. Here's always been my reccomendation to people when they ask.

The cast piston will last and wear longer, given the variables such as mix oil ratio, type oil, type riding, remain the same between the two types of pistons. But the cast piston is a heavier piston, and often doesn't ahve intake hole(s) cut into the skirt.

The forged piston is lighter, and often does have intake hole(s) cut into the skirt.

ANY piston is subject to cyclical stresses of heat and mechanical forces. These stresses will ultimately lead to failure. I cringe any time I hear that someone has been running the same the piston for 3 years of hard sand dune riding. It's only a matter of when, not if that piston will fail. Each piston, the cast or forged, has it's limitations.

So, with that, if you want longevity, go with a cast piston, otherwise the forged. The forged piston offers better performance characteristics, but for most, those are small and minute but do add up in a complete package in a well thought out and planned motor.

 

Give Arlan at LRD a call. He can sell you either piston you want. Also what he does is ceramic coats the top of the piston and teflon coats the sides.

I ran the same piston all year in the 12 round GNC National circut, I even went to the dunes a few times and practiced alot. Last weekend I rejetted and went out on a lake (frozen) and was drag racing everyone. Yes my
motor was not as fresh as it was at the beginning of the year. But it's still going strong.

Having your piston coated may cost a few more bucks but its worth it in the long run.

Waymod