Engine Build Recommendadtion Options

[N_Jay]

OK, we have recently hashed out head gaskets, Pistons, rods, and bearings.
A while a go it was oil pumps.

So what about a fresh build discussion.

I plan on building a decent 2.0 based street engine.
Goals are decent power, longevity and drivability.
Think fun reliable touring with an occasional autocross. (Kind of what a factory 2.0 was good for, but with a little more kick in the pants.)
AND reasonable price (Yes, that is always open to interpretation)

What is recommended displacement? Bore and Stroke?
What pistons, rods and cylinders? What compression?
What cam?
Guessing micro squirt or tuned up D-Jet.

What "tricks" are worth while for a few HP and/or drivability, longevity, etc.
What "tricks" are not worth while (or worst yet help one direction and hurt another)

How much worse would it be to start with a 1.8 base? (Heads, etc.)

[N_Jay]

OK, I am not looking for someone to build it.

Probably not going with Nickies for this engine.

2056 is 96mm on a stock crank?

What is the next step up? How fast do you get to a size that the D-Jet won't support?

I noticed that et HAM heads are 4 stud (1.8 style). Are they based off 1.8 castings, or are they a fully custom casting?

And what is meant by "Square" vs. "Oval" ports?

[Mark Henry]

I noticed that et HAM heads are 4 stud (1.8 style). Are they based off 1.8 castings, or are they a fully custom casting?

They are built on new AMC 1.8 castings. They are welded and machined to the 914 2.0 chamber spec, plugs moved and they take the 12mm plug size. New seats, 2.0 size SS valves, HD springs and retainers. If going bigger than a stock FI compatible cam you should step up to dual springs. You can get them in 3 or 4 bolt, you only need the 3 bolt if using the 2.0 D-jet intake.

If going stock FI another good choice is the 914 1.8 L-jet system. I'd still get the 3 bolt heads and use the 2.0 runners, they fit with a slight tweak on the one tube.