Originally Posted by AGearHead4Life

I think many would disagree that .5:1 of compression is negligible since its a collection of all those little things that add up to the final total. More compression will definitely help the final performance of the engine. So if you're rebuilding your dished piston 5.3 and plan to replace the piston why not go flat top? Would the LS1 guys like to lose .5 of compression? I doubt it.

But if you're trying to say that its not worth pulling an engine out and apart just to swap out pistons, I agree.

Originally Posted by Noah Burns

essentially that's what I mean... what kind of power is 1/2 point of compression generally worth, all other things being the same?

Originally Posted by Noah Burns

essentially that's what I mean... what kind of power is 1/2 point of compression generally worth, all other things being the same?

Originally Posted by Noah Burns

If pulling an engine and swapping rods/pistons is a cheap return then I guess, my labor is real expensive so it wouldn't be worth 20-30 hp for me.

It is a cool good idea I guess for super budget minded guys looking for every advantage possible.

Originally Posted by Suburbazine

A little bit, probably not noticeable as power but faster revving. But I'd recommend the +.120" flat top route

Originally Posted by gamble686

20-30hp isn't unusual. When you stop and think 4.8 pistons are cheap as dirt to come by and it's basically just labor that's a decent return for cost. Especially on a budget build.

Originally Posted by Noah Burns

If pulling an engine and swapping rods/pistons is a cheap return then I guess, my labor is real expensive so it wouldn't be worth 20-30 hp for me.

It is a cool good idea I guess for super budget minded guys looking for every advantage possible.

Originally Posted by 1FastBrick

What MLS gasket are you using???

I would measure the Dish on the pistons. I was under the impression they were an 8cc dish.

8cc dish piston with a .052 Factory MLS gasket comes out to 9.5:1