86MM Pistons for Type 616

[Nedim Alexander Aruz]

Im in the midst of a restoration on my mild outlaw 356, it already has a 912 (616 motor) and needed a rebuild due to some sloppy work by previous tech. Looking for some recommendations regarding pistons/ juggs and its very hard to discern the reality vs the fear when it comes to the choices. I was hoping to gather some real world advice on the following kits. I hope to hear from folks here that have tried 1 or more of the following choices:

I'm looking at the following criteria: Reliability, Vibration free operation, low smoke/ temperature issues and of course durability/performance. Is this just another get what your pay for scenario or does even the cheapest option get your great performance?

AA Pistons - Cast AA Pistons and Iron Cylinder Juggs: $560..
https://aapistons.com/products/porsche- ... linder-kit

NLA 86MM Pistons - JE Forged Pistons and Iron Juggs w/Aluminium Fins - $1,354.00
https://www.stoddard.com/nla10390188-61 ... 8-nla.html

Mahle 86MM Pistons with Aluminium/ Nikasil Cylinders - $3,243
https://www.stoddard.com/61610390406set.html

LN Nickies - Forged Pistons and Aluminium Juggs $4,400
https://lnengineering.com/products/pors ... mbers.html

[David Jones]

Nedim, I have used the cheapest option and have had zero problems on at least 6 engines. Two of which are in my own cars and one with 30K miles and has been run over 6K rpm frequently. Oil starts to turn a little darker around 600 miles though uses less than a quart between changes and I use synthetic 15/50 oil.

[Nedim Alexander Aruz]

Oops and forgot this last one from Willhoit
91MM Pistons with Dunbar Iron - $2,750
http://willhoit-auto-restoration.mybigc ... iston-set/

[Jim Clement]

Or others also make the Durabar cylinders from Shasta , or similar.

http://shastadesign.net/

with JE pistons.

I had the AAA pc set, did not have good luck, I admit it may have been the builder, or both.

Went with the Durabar and JE pistons, no oil no black smoke, no fouled plugs..

[Brad Ripley]

You missed the sets from Stoddard NLA = Mahle pistons/LN Eng. Nickasil cylinders

See http://www.nlaparts.com/store/engineeri ... 23024.html
Choice of six sets, 86 and 91 dia., about $4400.

or, in the original 82.50 size, Stoddard NLA has a set directly from Mahle http://www.nlaparts.com/store/mahle-nik ... 21580.html about $3250.

As usual, the higher the price, the higher the quality and long life. Take your choice.

[Nedim Alexander Aruz]

Thanks all for the quick reply..Shasta seems be like a great middle ground with proven components. Will update on the direction I go! Woo wooo

[Wes Bender]

Good choice, Nedim. That's what I have and I'm very happy with them. Also, Leonard is a great guy to work with.

[Nedim Alexander Aruz]

Thanks..Shasta all ordered up. Appreciate the guidance!

[Paul Lima]

I heartily recommend Shasta Design for pistons and cylinders (and much else). Great product, great technical support.

[Brad Ripley]

BTW, Nedim, which Shasta set did you chose and what was the price?

[Nedim Alexander Aruz]

BTW, Nedim, which Shasta set did you chose and what was the price?

Hey Brad, I ended up paying $1,695 for the Shasta 86MM with JE pistons. Prices have gone up from $1,495. Leonard the owner said the site was supposed to be updated by his web guy but he forgot to do it.

[Jason Laster]

+1 on Leonard and his Shasta design pistons/cylinders. I've been very happy with my purchase.