If you are looking for a way to boost the performance and reliability of your Volkswagen engine, you might want to consider a Subaru conversion. This is a popular and effective modification that involves swapping the original VW engine with a more powerful and durable Subaru one.
However, before you start this project, you need to make sure you choose the right pistons for your new engine.
In this blog post, we will explain why pistons are important, what factors to consider when choosing them, and how to find the best parts from a reliable Volkswagen-running Subaru drivetrain auto parts manufacturer.
Why Pistons Matter
Pistons are the heart of any internal combustion engine. They are the cylindrical parts that move up and down inside the cylinders, compressing the air-fuel mixture and creating the power that drives the vehicle.
Pistons are subjected to extreme temperatures, pressures, and forces, so they need to be strong, durable, and resistant to wear and tear. Moreover, the quality and design of the pistons can affect the performance, efficiency, and longevity of the engine.
Pistons are especially an important part of Volkswagen-Subaru conversion products because you are replacing the original engine with a different one that has different specifications and requirements.
For example, Subaru engines typically have higher compression ratios, higher rev limits, and more advanced ignition systems than VW engines. This means that the pistons need to be able to handle these conditions and match the characteristics of the new engine.
If you use the wrong pistons, you might end up with poor performance, reduced fuel economy, increased emissions, or even engine damage.
Factors To Consider When Choosing Pistons
When choosing pistons for your Volkswagen-Subaru conversion, there are several factors that you need to consider. These include:
Size
The size of the pistons determines the displacement and compression ratio of the engine. The displacement is the volume of air that the engine can move in one cycle.
On the other hand, the compression ratio is the ratio of the volume of the cylinder when the piston is at the bottom to the volume when the piston is at the top.
The size of the pistons should match the size of the cylinders and the desired compression ratio of the new engine. If the pistons are too big or too small, they might not fit properly, cause excessive friction, or alter the compression ratio too much.
Material
The material of the pistons affects their strength, durability, and weight. The most common materials for pistons are cast iron, aluminum, and forged steel.
- Cast iron pistons are cheap and easy to manufacture, but they are heavy, brittle, and prone to cracking.
- Aluminum pistons are light and strong, but they are more expensive and require more cooling.
- Forged steel pistons are the strongest and most durable, but they are also the heaviest and most costly.
The material of the pistons should suit the intended use and budget of the new engine. For example, if you are looking for a high-performance engine, you might want to opt for forged steel pistons, but if you are looking for a more economical engine, you might want to choose aluminum pistons.
Shape
The shape of the pistons affects the combustion chamber and the airflow inside the engine. The combustion chamber is the space between the piston and the cylinder head, where the air-fuel mixture is ignited and burned.
Furthermore, the shape of the pistons should match the shape of the cylinder head and the valves to create an optimal combustion chamber that maximizes the power and efficiency of the engine.
It is also important to note that the shape of the pistons also affects the airflow inside the engine. It creates turbulence or swirl that improves the mixing and burning of the air-fuel mixture.
Therefore, the shape of the pistons should suit the design and characteristics of the new engine. For example, if you are looking for a high-revving engine, you might want to choose pistons with a flat or slightly domed shape.
However, if you are looking for a low-revving engine, you might want to choose pistons with a concave or dished shape.
How Can We Help?
Are you looking for the best pistons or the entire engine for your Volkswagen Subaru conversion project? Look no further than Specialised Parts, your one-stop shop for premium Subaru auto parts designed specifically for converted Volkswagens.
As a leading supplier and manufacturer of high-quality VW-compatible Subaru parts, we have the experience and expertise to help you find the perfect fit for your vehicle. Our products are strong, durable, and resistant to wear and tear, ensuring that your newly converted vehicle performs well, lasts long, and meets your expectations.
Contact us today and discover the difference that our products can make for your Volkswagen-Subaru conversion.
