Are pistons made from 4032 material suitable for a boosted motor, say 10-12lbs. or would it be prudent to step up to 2618? BTW, the car will be a DD at about a CR of 8.8-9.0-1, but will see occasional track time. Thanks.

 

2618 would be preferred as it contains less silicon and is a bit more durable. It does expand more as it is more dense and requires more bore clearance. Usually the 4032 pistons are a lighter design as well and not as suitable in a boosted application. There may be exceptions to this, but if you've got a choice I'd pick the 2618s. Lunati's catalog used to be good to look at for an example of this though its been a while since I've looked at it.


12/25 Post was edited to correct a mistake. Thank you A/G.

 

I thought it was the other way around also. 2618 contains more silicone which reacts to heat more making it a worse choice for boost.

 

No, the 4032 has the more silicon. With the more silicon (no 'E'), the expansion rate is less.

 

The 2618 needs more piston-to-bore clearance, not less than the 4032. The 2618 pistons will be noisy at start-up and are good for high boost, 15+ pounds. I would think the 4032 could handle anything under 15 pounds.

 

I am so sorry I completely flipped that around. (bore clearance)I know better than that. Thanks for straightening that out. I would edit the post but then the replys wouldn't make sense. Eggnog in face. 2618 is the better material for a boosted engine still.

 

Yup you are right, for some reason I was thinking that my -31cc JE's were 4032 when they are really 2016. I always spell it with the E, damn hooked on phonics didn't work for me.

 

4032 material does not tolerate ANY detonation where 2618 will tolerate some. Ask me how I know!
Steve