Would you say it’s safe or would you guys recommend fitting forged pistons and rods..

money is tight and so if 200 can be done on std bottom end I’ll be happy.

 

My old xr2 turbo technics was running std rs turbo bottom end at 19psi boost and 202 bhp that was fine like that.. the bottom end was rebuilt how ever but still only running cast pistons etc

 

180 bhp should be no problem for a (new/rebuilt) standard bottom end with cast pistons as long as the fueling and the ignition works as it should. Spend some money on better bearings when you plan to rebuild it and an external oil cooler.

For 200 bhp and more you should start thinking about forged pistons.