Originally posted by JontourSVT:
sorry to hear that...i havent had my tour in over 3 weeks. it is getting the head gasket fixed, only to find out the block is warped! so he is pulling the block, machining it, then reassembling it for free...but i still paid for the head machining, gasket set, etc (over $1100). ouch...



Here is an update:

Finally got it back, waterpump was the culprit-the impeller was 95% missing!! Here is all that I did/had done:

Motor was cleaned and dis/reassembled and decked (using same internals)
Head was cleaned/resurfaced (using same internals)
Remanufactured water pump
New timing belt
All new gaskets, head bolts, etc.
SPEC Stage 2 clutch (stocker was nearly gone)
Timing belt tensioner pulley (old one severly cracked)
Lightened stock flywheel
SVT front/rear mounts installed (w/ES Poly insert)
Optimized TB (thanks Rick)
Gutted cat
New heater core/hoses
Mechanical OIL PRESS gauge

I am sure I am forgetting some things...
Also, it is blowing a moderate amount of white smoke at startup, is this normal after a complete engine overhaul? the mech said it could be residual coolant in the muffler, but I dont think so, since the coolant had 2 months to dry and the smoke smells more like oil, (not sweet)...

Any thoughts...?

Thanks guys...

2003.5 MAZDASPEED Protege #1467, Ti Grey MODS: Schroth 3pt harness, clear corners, CF hood, grill, mirrors, dash, etc. Injen CAI, Defi D Boost/OilP/AFRatio, Greddy SP2 2.5" Cat Back