J-Series stroker build: RL J35A8 heads or J32A2 heads?

[AndyD]

Hi all,

I am currently researching options of my build. I am looking to go with a 2002-2004 Ody crank, J32A2 block and RL pistons. I am wondering what I should go with for the heads/cams options.

Based on my research, some seem to prefer using RL cams over J32A2 cams. Same goes for the heads.

I'm looking to build a stroker motor to make the most tq and hp using mostly, if not all, stock parts from other engines.

Also, I read that the MDX J37A engine has a better designed intake manifold and throttle body. Do I have to look out for IMs from a particular year?

Same question goes for the RL engine. Any particular year range I need to stay within?

Thanks for the help!

Andy

 

[Varnell]

With just a stroke you're looking at 3.6L. Are you planning to boost?

You can also use the 2008 TL-S cams. Either way you'll need a spacer for the timing belt components. Good luck getting the TL-S valve springs as I bought all that were left in the country. It took a month to ship the rest from Japan.

The 2009 TL SH-AWD is the J37 Intake Manifold you're looking for. You'll also need the power rev racing IM adapter and gaskets.

For simplicity I went with the J37A4 crank, rods, and pistons. The bore increased from 89mm to 90mm (the factory limit for the J32A2 block) to make a 3.7L for the most NA power.

 

[AndyD]

Thanks for the information.

So I am looking to buy a pre-built bottomend with the Ody crank, J32A2 block, and RL pistons. Now I'm trying to figure out what next to buy. I am wondering if I should just get an RL or J32A2 longblock to get some of the parts I need to complete this bottomend.

This will be an NA setup. Not a fan of turbos.

 

[Varnell]

Thanks for the information.

So I am looking to buy a pre-built bottomend with the Ody crank, J32A2 block, and RL pistons. Now I'm trying to figure out what next to buy. I am wondering if I should just get an RL or J32A2 longblock to get some of the parts I need to complete this bottomend.

This will be an NA setup. Not a fan of turbos.

So you've already decided on the block? Do you mean you're now trying to decide on the heads/cams?

Edit: 1,000th post!

 

[AndyD]

Oh, yes, I should've mentioned that. Someone already has a pre-built bottomend they are selling locally. I am looking for the remaining parts to build an engine.

I'm wondering if it would be worthwhile getting a completely longblock of either the J32A2, TL J32A4, or RL J35A8 and taking it apart to get the heads and cams and such off to put on the bottomend I intend on buying. Hoping one of these longblocks will be the better option to build this bottomend.

I read suggestions where people prefer RL cams over Type S cams. Are RL heads the same, or better, than J32A2 heads?

Thanks for the help!

 

[AndyD]

Also, an interesting post here:
http://www.v6performance.net/forums/2238578-post17.html

 

[Varnell]

^I've read just about every thread pertaining to J32/35/37 builds. I haven't seen any definitive evidence that the RL Cams are better. I went with the TL-S Cams because they are hollow.

I remember reading about people putting J32 heads on J35 and J37 engines to better flow. I can't seem to find them now. Most people just ask about hypothetical builds and never follow through or post results.

 

[WHEEELMAN]

Are you sure those J35A8 heads will bolt up AND match the water jackets and oil channels on that J32A2 block?

 

[Teh CL]

Here's some pics to add to this thread. J35A8 Top & J32A2 Bottom

If your interested I'll have J35A8 RL Heads/IM/Runners available soon.

 

[Russianred]

Look at the bottom middle left hole, they are inversed. Both hole arrangements are facing the same direction - to right right. The picture above, they are facing opposite direction, mirroring each other.