Basic Stroker Q/A

[Baskinator]

So I'm in the process of rebuilding a 4.0 to swap into my SX/4, but I've wondered whether or not the most basic 4.5 stroker option would be viable or just not worth it for me. I have a few questions regarding this, and to define "4.5 stroker", I'm talking 4.2 crank and rods swap without any other mods (probably will have a new Crane cam, everything else held constant).

In comparison with a stock HO 4.0l engine and MPI setup:
-What can be said about the longevity of the 4.5?
-I assume it's lower, but what is the gas mileage like?
-Can I use Regular pump gas, or is Premium/High Octane required?

My eagle is currently auto A998, with NP129 and I believe 2.73 gears. I will probably retain all of this until a while after the swap, but my [far] future endeavors are AW4, NP242...

[mudkicker715]

i built 2 of them now. gas mileage is the same. why would you think the longevity would be less? i can chirp my sr4 trans tires into third so that stroker is fun. 

[Baskinator]

Good to hear! What grade of gas do you use in them? I just was wondering how well the 4.0 block stands up to the increased compression and if it makes any significant difference in how long it will last. I'd baby it anyway, I always use full synthetic and I even had an Amsoil bypass filtration system in mind with a forever oil filter. The cooling system will also be more than adequate with my aluminum rad and all new components.

[mudkicker715]

regular gas. msd 6a ignition carburated.

[amcinstaller]

unless youre going over a .060 overbore, i wouldnt worry about it. just make sure your spring pressures are right and it will last as long as a regular rebuild

[Baskinator]

I think I just might go with a 4.5 stroker when the time comes. Thanks for the info!