Is the M42 a worthy engine for improvement?

[patriot]

I basicly know nothing about these engines since I just picked up my ti in February.
I'm a VW /Subaru technician so I'm competant and confident in my work.
I want more power(who doesn't) but I dont need FI just yet, lol.
6 cylinders are a viable option too but I don't feel like dropping the dough without finding out what the little 4-bangers are worth. My Civic is the race car so I'm looking into a basic, budget build.
#1 criteria, headwork. Is the M42 head a decent head to start with?
#2 displacement and compression. I see people talking about stroking and boring but I haven't the time to really read thru everything and put together a list. I'd like to know what's the biggest and the safest large bore I can go with in the M42. As well, I'd like to know what pistons(be it OEM or aftermarket) to use. Finally, what are my crank options?

Thanks guys. I know the information is here but it seems there isn't nearly as much true performance knowlege collected into one area like a lot of other forums are.

[spidertri]

This is one of the best reads and results I have seen out of an M42 NA build. If I had the time, knowledge, and money I would love to do it.

http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum...d.php?t=433471

[patriot]

Cool, thanks. I think I was skimming through this when I first joined.

[b-rad]

m42club.com
Its mostly e30 guys, but TONS of info on there.

[marko]

these people are VERY knowledgable / forthcoming / and open to inquiries...
they also build dome serious motors...

should give them a ring... best bet - ask for Teddy.

http://www.metricmechanic.com/pdfs/m...ne-booklet.pdf

http://www.metricmechanic.com/

Originally Posted by patriot

I basicly know nothing about these engines since I just picked up my ti in February.
I'm a VW /Subaru technician so I'm competant and confident in my work.
I want more power(who doesn't) but I dont need FI just yet, lol.
6 cylinders are a viable option too but I don't feel like dropping the dough without finding out what the little 4-bangers are worth. My Civic is the race car so I'm looking into a basic, budget build.
#1 criteria, headwork. Is the M42 head a decent head to start with?
#2 displacement and compression. I see people talking about stroking and boring but I haven't the time to really read thru everything and put together a list. I'd like to know what's the biggest and the safest large bore I can go with in the M42. As well, I'd like to know what pistons(be it OEM or aftermarket) to use. Finally, what are my crank options?

Thanks guys. I know the information is here but it seems there isn't nearly as much true performance knowlege collected into one area like a lot of other forums are.