So, to sum it up:

Can the pistons/engine be improved?

Maybe

Is it ever going to pan out either economically or by a peformance increase?

Probably not



I wouldn't mind seeing someone try this though...... just to see what happens. I would almost bet that someone somewhere has already tried something of this nature.

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1985 300D Turbo ~225k
2000 F350 (Powerstroke) 4X4, SWB, CC, SRW, 6spd ~148k
1999 International 4900, DT466e (250hp/660 ft/lbs), Allison MD3060 ~73k