Over the winter I had a reputable shop build a forged stroker. I had them port the heads, and we installed Comp Cams Stage III cams, and LT's.

Last month I picked the car up. The engine shuddered badly a couple times from a low RPM start. The shop had no answers, so I researched the symptoms. Seemed indicative of cam phaser problems, so I had them install Livernois lockouts. The problem has since not occurred.

Finally took the car to get dyno tuned. Ready for this???

I made LESS power

All things being equal, boost, a/f, timing. I am down about 20whp on the new motor. Obviously I am going to give the engine builder a chance to look at the engine, and as much as I hate to say it, I hope he finds something. Otherwise, I may be asking for a partial refund on his labor. He told me to expect at least another 50-70whp.

 

Are you the same guy that's posting on mod fords?

 

I WOULD BE PISSED...

 

Well yea, You spend that much money, Increase the C.I's, and get less h.p. doesnt make sense.

 

I'm very upset and dissapointed. However, I need to keep my wits when I have the "come to Jesus" talk with the engine builder.

My expectation is that he send a flatbed to pick the car up on his nickel. This will be the third time the car has gone back to him for various problems. Moreover, I expect him to go through the engine until a problem is found or a logical explanation can be provided. If he cannot find the problem or reason the car is making less power, I will be asking for a refund on all of his labor charges.

Guys, I normally make better choices when it comes to choosing people to do business with. Please do yourselves a favor and think twice about who you hire to build an engine. I would encourge everyone to go with a highly reputable builder with a track record of success with modular engines, 3 valves in particular.

 

Wow man, sorry for the mess you are going through. The same money I'm setting back for a 2011 will be the same money I use to build my motor should I change my mind. I got my sights set on the boys from the Jersey area but that's something to think about.. Definitely keep us posted.

 

What is the compression ratio at. If it is low I bet it would make more power with the stock cams installed than the aftermarket ones.

 

Joe beat me to it. Typically when one builds one of these engines it's in anticipation of 500+ rwhp with FI. Therefore I would expect a lower compression ratio to better handle the boost. Just a guess though, it may have serrious issues.

 

Wow, that really sucks. Good luck and keep us posted man.

 

I'm not really familiar with engine builds, but is there any sort of break in period?

Even if there was, I can't imagine it making anywhere near a 20 hp difference. Keep us posted, this is strange to say the least.