Field Report: One Modification TRANSFORMED This Car.
About this episode
At the GTR Festival, Chris shares insights about his modified 180SX, now powered by a Nissan RB26 engine. He discusses the challenges and benefits of swapping from an SR to an RB, including weight balance and power management. The episode dives deep into the specifics of his build, featuring a 2.9 stroker kit, a Hollinger sequential gearbox, and a Bosch Motorsport ABS system that dramatically improved lap times. Chris emphasizes the importance of braking performance over sheer power, revealing how these modifications have transformed his car's handling and reliability on the track.
The 2.9L RB26 swap in place of the stock Nissan SR20 is easy to zero in on here, but it's not the modification that has made the most difference outright to lap times and driver confidence...
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With the ability to get 1500hp from this setup, owner and driver Chris Kostakis shows a lot of restraint and the realities of power vs performance when circuit racing a vehicle that is continually developing along with its owner with help from the likes of Advance Motor Mechanics and 909 Motorsport.
What are the downsides of swapping a SR20 for an RB26?
What are some advantages drive by wire (DBW) throttle control gives?
What are some key considerations of traction control for motorsport?
Does motorsport ABS really make a difference?
These questions and more are covered by Andre and Chris while they were at the Australian GTR Festival at Sydney Dragway and we look forward to seeing where Chris and his engine swapped 180SX head in the future when it comes to an aero package and time attack, although he sure has more than enough to keep a grin on his face as this car sits now!
BUILD OVERVIEW:
Factory SR20 removed
1500hp capable setup, running 900 for drag racing and 550-600 for circuit racing for now
N1 RB26 Block
Carrilo Rods
CP Pistons
Spool Imports RB29 Stroker Kit
BorgWarner EFR 9280 turbocharger
Rams Head Service cylinder head package
Peterson Fluid Systems dry sump system
Holinger RD6 sequential gearbox
MoTeC M150 ECU
Increased tyre/wheel sizing (295 fronts)
AP Racing Pro 5000 R's front calipers
Endless 4 pot rears
Bosch Motorsport ABS system
DNA Autosport Blistein suspension package
Benchmark Solutions torque and traction management strategies
Street registered 🤯
Toyota A90
"We had a Ram's head all the way through, all the way out. It's a 90 280 EFR turbo and behind that we've got a Hollinger Sequential the RD6, with a MoTeC M150 and it's completely dry. Summed, let's dive back into each of those elements."
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