[Mk2] [Turbo] help! replace rings or complete engine rebuild....

[Pitcher]

Hello all,

I looking for some advice and help....not sure what to do about my car…

Recently I noticed blue smoke from the exhaust, I have concluded it seem my piston rings may have finally worn… it smokes while revving the engine.

I still need to check the turbo but the turbo spins up fine and it does not seem to smoke much while boosting.

Car history: Ben F’s old red turbo, now done 310,000km (192k miles!) still original engine!

Current Engine spec: (300bhp)

Hayward and Scott custom stainless steel exhaust system,
Owen Developments Hybrid Turbo - custom Stage 2
HKS 1.6mm Stopper Head Gastket
Apex-i Power Flow Intake
Apexi AVC-R set to 1.15bar
Zener Diode Fuel Cut Defender
Copper Contact Distributor Cap
NGK BKR7EP Spark plugs
Engine run exclusively on Mobil1 Motorsport 15W50 and Super Unleaded

My question is should I just replace the rings or is it time for a full rebuild?

And if I do get it rebuilt what sort of cost and any suggestions how to go about it? I want a reliable engine (another 200k miles would be nice) but maybe a bit more power….

Thanks in advance
James

[cantfindausername]

I would say the answer comes entirely down to finances. That is the deciding factor for most people.

[JJ]

As Ants mentioned.....

My question is should I just replace the rings or is it time for a full rebuild?

As a minimal, forged pistons and new rings..... you'll find if its pouring with smoke, its likely that theres issues with one or more of the pistons....

Just changing out the pistons and rings alone will ensure durability from the engine if everything else is in good condition....