I'm running 9.0 Arias D16a6 pistons in my ZC which yields around a 7.8~7.9ish and I must say it sucks ***. I have to run 20~22ish psi before the car even feels alive at all. The thing was faster and funner to drive with stock pistons running 12psi.

Rollerwaves is where its at.

 

I was running 8.0:1 in my d16z6 and I didn't have complaints. although I would reccomend staying in the 9's

 

Maybe I'll invest in the expensive headgasket after all.

 

Invest in ARP headstuds too. Probably more important than the gasket itself

 

I just got my ARP's today actually.

I recalculated the c/r and since I had the head milled I will be at around 8.6:1 so maybe I'll go with a stock HG after all. I am still undecided though.

 

What you plan on buying one of those expensive HKS gaskets? I'd mill the ---- out of your head and get some cam gears to pick up the slack. Because super low compression sucks imo.

 

I was debating on it but I'm not 100% sure. How well do OEM HG's hold up to boost?

 

With a set of studs and a few coats of copper spray the stock hg should be ok. It's not a MLS gasket, its just the standard composite style

 

Alreday doing this and ya, I'm staying above 9-ish for CR

 

Even at higher boost levels (17-20 psi)?