heh kegs

"Even gave it subaru upper engine cleaner."

It almost has to be an N/A bottom end. I had a fresh 8.5:1 comp ratio FJ20 that had 165psi over all four.

Someone must know of a definitive way to tell a turbo block from the outside. If not I think only the DET's had oil squirters on the pistons.

Also is there any evidence of tampering with the oil feed for the turbo as well as the water return?

Remember also that the CA18det has the vaccuum feed line along the exhaust cam for the variable boost solenoid.

There's been plenty of SR20DE+T conversions that have run with no issues at 9psi.

I don't see why a CA would be any different. Unless the CAS 'tongue' has broke off and the cas will push in anywhere.

Done the timing to confirm it's not firing at the wrong time?

I think i'll have to take the sump off... crap. It certainly makes sense that it's a DE. I noticed that the water return and oil feeds in the block both had different bolts to my DET.
It's all adding up to be my worst nightmare...again. oh well, can't expect sellers to be honest i suppose, that would be just crazy in this world.

The tuning place must have checked the timing but i will double check it. and get the CAS checked.
The exhaust cam - near the pulley? I'll compare it with my old engine.
thanks