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As per my thread in General Discussion, I'm quite confident that my Familia engine toasted its #3 ring. Now what I plan to do is rebuild the original MX-5 1.8L engine with a few more goodies to cope with some extra boost when I want to turn it up in the future.

Now I'm wondering what sort of pistons to buy. Based on DriftFury's posts, keeping the standard rods is probably the go as they're quite tough little units. But, what pistons? Do today's forgies still slap? Are there any good hypereutectic aftermarket cast pistons available?

Before anyone suggests it, I'm not interested in either stroking the motor or using lower compression-ratio pistons. I want the driveability and torque of 9.0:1.

Experiences/comments/stuff appreciated!

Hi Sabre - Wiseco's for you. They don't appear to slap and they are pretty good pistons. My engine builder was impressed with them.

Thanks CT. Is it just the one engine you've used them in or has the builder also used Wiseco forged pistons in other motors?

I have used the ACL pistons made here in OZ. What can you say about pistons - they go up/down and should last a long time. The ACL ones are not superlight, super strong, or anything like that. They are just good pistons for a good price.

IMHO if you want the 'best' you should look at Mahle, with Wiseco coming in next. Some of the Japanese pistons are probably very good too.

My engine builder is very excited about the fact that since Mahle and ACL have gone into a partnership for the new Holden V6, Mahle pistons will now be more available in this country.

Be warned, you can pay seriously large bucks for top line forged pistons and most street cars really won't notice the difference. But if you are thinking of going to some large boost numbers on stock compression, you are talking better pistons than the ordinary car needs.

Or you are accepting regular and possibly spectacular demonstrations of piston failure. Like when they get tired of going up/down and try some sideways movement, providing ventilation to the block where you don't need it.

Another vote for Wiseco's here. Had a set in my last Evo, 40thou O/S, and they were great. No cold piston slap/rattle on startup either!

A mate's turbo'd LS1 Caprice put a rod through the side of the block. That's not something I want to happen, but it was no doubt spectacular.

I've been doing a bit of reading on Miata.net and the general consensus seems to be that the Wisecos sold by Flyin' Miata are the go. Apparently if the machining is done correctly, they won't slap. Price doesn't seem too bad either.

Have you considered an NB8B engine at all? I know MX5_DriftFury has one installed in his NA and it's turboed too I think...

The wiseco's are great value for money, even at RRP.

If you decide to go with wiseco, shoot me a PM, and I'll sort you out a respectable discount

sabretooth wrote:Thanks CT. Is it just the one engine you've used them in or has the builder also used Wiseco forged pistons in other motors?

He's also uses them for chevy's in race engines. Pretty sure they are also in his big block, twin turbo, torana drag car Yeah Baby!

I looked at mine when we freshened up the motor and they were like brand new. No signs of wear of any description after a season of racing.

I've gotten a price of $725 for some Wiseco forgies with a 8.4:1 CR. I was hoping for 9.0:1, but oh well. Certainly can't argue with the price!