Wondering what the advantages and disadvantages to running a closed deck (versus our open deck design) are. Should I consider closing the deck off (obviously allowing for coolant flow) when I go to sleeve the block?

 

it's all depends on the design.

for most of the honda block, unless you are running extremely high boost, a close deck is not needed.

as you already notice, a open deck design allow the coolant flow thru which is better(for most of the boost situation).

 

Is closing the deck simply to strengthen the cylinder sides, then?

 

A closed deck is stiffer. Drag racers using massive boost will take this step, and I believe there are products available to do it.

 

How much boost will you be running to need a closed deck? The only S2000 motors I know of with a closed deck are running GT42R's on insane amounts of boost and 800+ horsepower.

 

I don't know yet, but I didn't know enough about the advan/disadvan of having a closed deck to make an informed decision on whether I should close it. I suspected it was to prevent excessive cylinder walk, particularly under high boost (large forces), and this somewhat confirms my suspicion.

I believe I would be quite happy with 400 whp, so this doesn't look like a necessity for me. It's a very inexpensive upgrade to make if the block is already in the open (<$100), therefore if it offered an extra degree of reliability for a few Andrew Jacksons I would go ahead and do it.

Thanks, guys!

 

Keep the deck open for ~400 HP.

 

Think 800 horsepower or more needed to justify a closed deck block.

Tim

 

Well, I assume that if you're going to modify your car at all, it's to get to at least 800 hp, right? Otherwise, why bother?

 

id say ( and ive spoken to several of my buddies) the open deck F motor can handle up to 400 hp safely. anything more - def. get it sleeved/close it up.

i know there were threads about just using a block guard - that may be a safe/cost effective way as well. ( not bulletproof - but safe )