Here's why:
* Connecting Rods: The stock connecting rods are not designed for the increased stress of boosted applications. They are prone to bending or fracturing under higher cylinder pressures.
* Pistons: Stock pistons might not be able to handle the higher combustion pressures without detonation (uncontrolled explosion) leading to damage.
* Head Gasket: Boost increases cylinder pressure, putting extra strain on the head gasket. A blown head gasket is a common failure point in boosted naturally aspirated engines.
* Other Components: Other components like the stock clutch, transmission, and even the engine mounts will be stressed beyond their design limits.
While some people *might* get away with it for a short time, it's a gamble with potentially expensive consequences. To safely run 5-6 PSI of boost on a 2.4L Ecotec, you'd ideally want forged internals (pistons, connecting rods), upgraded head studs, a better head gasket, and supporting modifications (fuel system upgrades, stronger clutch, etc.). Even then, careful tuning is critical to avoid damaging the engine.
In short, while it *might* work for a while, it's highly recommended to upgrade internal components before attempting to boost a stock 2001 Z24 engine. The risk of engine failure significantly outweighs the potential benefits.