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The Mitsubishi Eclipse, particularly those equipped with the 4G63 engine, has long been a favorite among car enthusiasts and tuners. Building a 4G63 Eclipse to achieve over 500 horsepower is an exciting project that requires careful planning and budgeting. In this article, we will break down the costs associated with building a 4G63 Eclipse using a Garrett GT35R turbocharger and forged internals.
Understanding the 4G63 Engine
The 4G63 engine is a 2.0L inline-4 engine that has gained a reputation for its performance potential. It has been used in various Mitsubishi models, including the Eclipse, Talon, and Galant. Known for its robust design and turbocharging capabilities, the 4G63 can be modified to produce impressive power figures.
Key Components for a 500+ HP Build
- Garrett GT35R Turbocharger
- Forged Internals (pistons, rods)
- Upgraded Fuel System
- ECU Tuning
- Upgraded Intercooler
- High-Performance Exhaust
1. Garrett GT35R Turbocharger
The Garrett GT35R is a popular choice for those looking to reach high horsepower levels. It offers a good balance of spool time and top-end power. The cost of the turbocharger typically ranges from $1,200 to $1,800 depending on the vendor and any additional accessories needed.
2. Forged Internals
To handle the increased power, upgrading to forged internals is essential. This includes forged pistons and connecting rods. The cost for a quality set of forged pistons and rods can range from $800 to $1,500.
3. Upgraded Fuel System
Increased horsepower demands more fuel. An upgraded fuel system, including larger injectors and a high-flow fuel pump, is necessary. Budget around $500 to $1,000 for these components.
4. ECU Tuning
Proper tuning is crucial to ensure the engine runs efficiently and safely at higher power levels. Depending on whether you choose a standalone ECU or a reflash, expect to spend between $400 and $1,200.
5. Upgraded Intercooler
A larger, more efficient intercooler will help lower intake temperatures and improve performance. Costs for a quality intercooler can range from $300 to $800.
6. High-Performance Exhaust
To maximize exhaust flow, a high-performance exhaust system is necessary. This can range from $500 to $1,500 depending on the brand and materials used.
Additional Costs to Consider
- Labor Costs
- Miscellaneous Parts (gaskets, fluids, etc.)
- Dyno Tuning
- Upgraded Cooling System
1. Labor Costs
If you are not performing the build yourself, labor costs can add up quickly. Expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 depending on the complexity of the build and the shop’s hourly rate.
2. Miscellaneous Parts
Don’t forget to budget for miscellaneous parts such as gaskets, fluids, and other small components. This can add an additional $200 to $500 to your overall costs.
3. Dyno Tuning
After the build is complete, a dyno tuning session is crucial to optimize performance. This can cost between $300 and $600.
4. Upgraded Cooling System
To support the increased power and prevent overheating, an upgraded cooling system may be necessary. Expect to budget around $300 to $700 for this upgrade.
Total Cost Breakdown
Now that we have outlined the major components and additional costs, let’s summarize the total estimated cost for building a 4G63 Eclipse with 500+ HP:
- Garrett GT35R Turbocharger: $1,200 – $1,800
- Forged Internals: $800 – $1,500
- Upgraded Fuel System: $500 – $1,000
- ECU Tuning: $400 – $1,200
- Upgraded Intercooler: $300 – $800
- High-Performance Exhaust: $500 – $1,500
- Labor Costs: $1,000 – $3,000
- Miscellaneous Parts: $200 – $500
- Dyno Tuning: $300 – $600
- Upgraded Cooling System: $300 – $700
When adding up the lower estimates, the total comes to approximately $5,000, while the higher estimates can reach around $12,600. This wide range reflects the variability in parts, labor, and tuning options available for your build.
Conclusion
Building a 4G63 Eclipse with 500+ HP using a Garrett GT35R and forged internals is an ambitious yet rewarding project. By carefully considering each component and associated costs, you can create a powerful and reliable vehicle that will provide exhilarating performance on the road or track. Always remember to budget for unexpected expenses and consult with professionals when necessary to ensure the best results.