OK, I have a 2003 Raptor, currently setup with an Alba open race pipe, Proflow K&N setup, no lid on airbox, and rejetted accordingly. I want to take the next step and get a high compression piston and Stage 1 cam. I'm looking for more power, but reliablility and rideability are important to me. I don't want to spend my time at Glamis wrenching or tuning my Raptor. Given this, is there any reason NOT to do this?

- Do I want a JE piston? 11:1?
- Do I use the rings they provide, or try to get Total Seal rings?
- What will I need beside piston, cam, and rings? Anybody have a list of small parts (gaskets, seals, etc.) that I need to gather?
- Any suggestions on jetting that will get me close at near sea level with the new cam and piston?

I like to know all the angles before I go into something, so all feedback and advice is appreciated. My Raptor is great right now, I just want more. However, the last thing I want is to do an "upgrade" and end up with tons of problems or struggle to get it running right.

Thanks for the help!

 

Thanks! Is the hone necessary if the motor only has about 15-20 hours on it?

 

Yes make sure the machine shop hones the bore out to the specs of the piston. The JE Piston requires .003 to .0045 clearance between the bore and the piston. If this is not done you could break the rod at the wrist pin area.
I have heard of people just throwing in the piston and rings and nothing else, then a few months later the rod is hanging of the cases.

I would try a total seal ring, I did!!!! And thats all I am going to say!!!!!!!!!

 

Ernie,
Where did you get the total seal rings? I don't want to put my motor back together without them if they make that much of a difference.

Help a guy out!

Thanks man.

 

Ernie,

OK I found it http://www.totalseal.com/. DUH?!?!?!

You need to give them your groove width on your piston and they can custom make a set for like $40 or $50, estimated.

Is it worth it?


Also, how much were your Total Seal rings? Were they custom made? Did you have to order them or did a local dealer have them in stock. Total seal is having trouble locating the proper rings for me.

What were the part #s they sent you and for which piston? 100 or 102 mm?

Sorry for all the questions.

 

Right on slappie, you have the accurate information.

 

Ernie...and after the hone I will still be able to use a "standard bore" piston?

 

Yes, it is important to have the proper clearance. It will still be a stoke bore with no problems.