The A4G63 is a high-performance engine known for its reliability and tuning potential, particularly within the world of motorsports and car enthusiasts. It’s often found in vehicles like the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution series and certain Eagle Talon models, and it’s famed for its ability to generate impressive horsepower figures when properly modified. Whether you are looking to build an A4G63 engine for a racing car, a daily driver, or a project car, the costs can vary significantly depending on a variety of factors. In this article, we will dive deep into the cost of building an A4G63 engine, breaking down all the components and labor costs involved to give you a clearer picture of what to expect.
Understanding the A4G63 Engine
Before discussing the costs, it’s essential to have a basic understanding of the A4G63 engine. This engine is part of the 4G63 family, which is a 2.0L, 4-cylinder, turbocharged unit produced by Mitsubishi. It has a solid reputation for being robust, tunable, and capable of handling substantial horsepower outputs. This engine is commonly found in the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution I to III, Eagle Talon, and Mitsubishi Galant VR-4, making it a popular choice among car enthusiasts and tuners.
When building an A4G63, the engine’s base performance can be significantly improved by upgrading its internal components, fuel system, turbocharger, and electronics. The goal is usually to increase its horsepower, torque, and overall reliability, especially in high-performance environments.
Key Factors That Impact the Cost of Building an A4G63 Engine
1. Engine Block and Internal Components
The heart of any engine build is the block and its internals. When building an A4G63, you’ll first need to assess the condition of the engine block and decide if it’s worth rebuilding or if you’ll need a new block altogether. Some enthusiasts choose to upgrade to a forged engine block or aftermarket performance blocks for additional strength.
Key internal components include:
- Forged Pistons: Upgrading to forged pistons ensures better performance and reliability, especially when pushing the engine to higher horsepower levels. These can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,200 depending on the brand and materials.
- Connecting Rods: Forged connecting rods are essential for high-power builds, and they typically range from $400 to $1,000.
- Crankshaft: If you’re aiming for extreme horsepower, a forged crankshaft may be necessary. Prices for these can range from $500 to $2,000 for high-quality, performance-oriented parts.
- Cylinder Head: The cylinder head plays a crucial role in engine performance. Building a high-performance A4G63 often includes porting and polishing the cylinder head. A fully built head with upgraded valve springs, titanium retainers, and valves can range between $1,000 and $3,000 depending on the level of modification.
- Bearings, Seals, and Gaskets: These are necessary components for the rebuild process, and while individually inexpensive, they add up in total. Expect to spend around $300 to $500 on these.
2. Turbocharger and Fuel System Upgrades
One of the main reasons to build the A4G63 engine is to increase the turbocharging potential. The A4G63 is known for its tunability, especially in terms of turbo upgrades. To handle the increased airflow and fuel requirements, you’ll also need to upgrade the fuel system.
- Turbocharger: A high-performance turbocharger is essential for getting the most out of the A4G63. A good quality turbo will cost between $1,000 and $2,500, with more advanced options such as Holset or Garrett turbochargers pushing the price higher.
- Intercooler: A larger, more efficient intercooler is often a necessary upgrade to support the increased power from the turbo. Prices typically range from $300 to $1,000 depending on the brand and design.
- Fuel Injectors: When running a higher-performing engine, you’ll need larger fuel injectors. High-performance injectors for the A4G63 can range from $400 to $800 for a set of four.
- Fuel Pump: A high-flow fuel pump is needed to ensure that the engine receives the correct amount of fuel under higher pressures. Expect to spend between $200 and $500 on a good-quality fuel pump.
- Fuel Management System: You may need an aftermarket fuel management system, such as a standalone ECU, to control the injectors and fuel delivery at higher power levels. This can range from $800 to $2,500 depending on the system.
3. Supporting Mods and Upgrades
For a high-performance build, supporting modifications are just as important as the engine internals. These components help ensure that the engine runs optimally and that your modifications don’t result in premature failure.
- Exhaust System: A high-flow exhaust system is essential for efficient turbo performance. Depending on the setup, expect to spend anywhere from $500 to $2,000.
- Clutch and Transmission: Upgrading the clutch and transmission is crucial, as the stock components may not be able to handle the increased power. High-performance clutches can range from $500 to $2,500, and the cost of a built transmission can vary greatly depending on how much power you’re making—typically from $1,500 to $4,000.
- Engine Management and Tuning: Tuning the engine for maximum performance is crucial, as improper tuning can lead to engine damage. The cost of tuning can range from $300 to $1,500, depending on whether you’re going with a basic tune or a full standalone ECU setup.
- Cooling System: To prevent overheating, a better radiator, and oil cooling system might be required. This can add another $300 to $800 to your build.
Labor Costs
Labor costs will be a significant portion of the overall cost when building an A4G63 engine, as the build requires precise installation, machining, and tuning. Labor costs vary depending on the shop, but typically, you can expect to pay:
- Engine Build Labor: For the engine rebuild itself, labor can range from $1,000 to $3,000 depending on how much work needs to be done (i.e., how many parts are being replaced, how much machining is required).
- Turbo Setup and Fuel System: Installation of turbochargers, intercoolers, injectors, and other supporting mods may cost between $1,000 to $3,000.
- Tuning and Final Adjustments: After the engine is built, tuning is necessary to ensure the car runs properly and maximizes performance. A tuning session can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,500.
5. Other Costs to Consider
Additional costs to consider when building an A4G63 engine include:
- Shipping Costs: If you need to order parts from various vendors, shipping costs can add up, potentially ranging from $100 to $500.
- Miscellaneous Parts: Small items like bolts, gaskets, and seals, as well as upgrades like a performance intake manifold or high-flow camshafts, can add a few hundred dollars to your total cost.
Total Estimated Cost to Build an A4G63 Engine
Now that we’ve broken down the individual costs, let’s estimate the total cost of building an A4G63 engine:
- Low-End Build (basic rebuild, stock components, mild turbo upgrade):
$4,000 – $6,000
This would involve a stock rebuild, some minor turbo upgrades, and basic tuning. - Mid-Level Build (for moderate performance gains, better internals, and larger turbo):
$6,000 – $10,000
This build would include stronger internals like forged pistons and rods, a moderate turbo upgrade, better cooling, and more tuning. - High-End Build (high-performance parts, larger turbo, standalone ECU, race-ready setup):
$10,000 – $15,000 or more
This is a fully built, high-performance engine capable of handling extreme horsepower numbers. This includes forged internals, upgraded fuel systems, and race-quality tuning.
Conclusion
Building an A4G63 engine can be a rewarding but costly process, depending on the level of performance you aim to achieve. On the low end, a basic rebuild will cost around $4,000 to $6,000, while a high-performance build can easily exceed $10,000 or more. Be sure to plan for labor costs, supporting modifications, and tuning to get the most out of your build. Ultimately, the investment in a built A4G63 engine can significantly enhance your vehicle’s performance, but it’s important to budget appropriately and choose your components wisely to achieve the desired results.