I really think there should be a sticky for information on replacing and purchasing internal parts for the Cobalt LSJ. I know that GM makes their performance manuals, but they only recommend Diamond pistons and some other random makers. How much horse can this engine handle to the crank without there being any damaging defects? I don't think many people in the performance community realize how much the ECOTEC housing can handle, or how much it's capable of. I mean, this car comes with an engine capable of tons of power, minus the pistons. This is one reason I purchased a Cobalt over many other options I had...with a pretty flexible budget. ECOTEC engines are amazing and there is so much room under the hood. I know I'll need new pistons eventually, I believe the stock ones have a compression ratio of 9.5:1 if I'm not mistaking.
1. List some vendors or anyone selling pistons for this LSJ
2. What documentations would be recommended for DIY people
3. Does GM make the high performance pistons to swap with (rings etc)
4. Is there a downloadable ECOTEC Engine Handbook

Most of all, does anyone have experience rebuilding this engine? Your input would be most appreciated!

 

1. List some vendors or anyone selling pistons for this LSJ
There are a few, don't know off the top of my head. If you do some searching on the site you can find alot of them or someone else can chime in with some.

2. What documentations would be recommended for DIY people
Get a service manual. Also get the ECOTEC build books. You will also need HPtuners if you plan on tuning the car yourself and need to do lots of reading to learn how to tune.

3. Does GM make the high performance pistons to swap with (rings etc)
I dont' think GM makes high performance pistons and rings for the ECOTEC, but it isn't hard to find them.

4. Is there a downloadable ECOTEC Engine Handbook
There is a downloadable ECOTEC build book at: http://tunersource.gmblogs.com/Racer-Tech

There are a few people with some experience rebuilding their cars, but again I don't know names off the top of my head.

 

blown-4-banger has a build going on. he blew a piston and is now building the motor for 400+whp(twinscrew or procharger)

victoryredSS is one of them as well. he is doing a turbo build

www.crateenginedepot.com has pistons i think