<TABLE cellSpacing=1 cellPadding=6 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD colSpan=2><TABLE width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-TOP: 4px" vAlign=top colSpan=2>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]engine swap?<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT][FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]June 14 1999 at 10:30 PM[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT][/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<SCRIPT language=Javascript> <!-- var n54_em; n54_em = ""; n54_em = n54_em + "g";n54_em = n54_em + "i";n54_em = n54_em + "l";n54_em = n54_em + "l";n54_em = n54_em + "a";n54_em = n54_em + "n";n54_em = n54_em + "o";n54_em = n54_em + "@";n54_em = n54_em + "r";n54_em = n54_em + "o";n54_em = n54_em + "c";n54_em = n54_em + "k";n54_em = n54_em + "e";n54_em = n54_em + "t";n54_em = n54_em + "m";n54_em = n54_em + "a";n54_em = n54_em + "i";n54_em = n54_em + "l";n54_em = n54_em + ".";n54_em = n54_em + "c";n54_em = n54_em + "o";n54_em = n54_em + "m"; document.write("Nic"); // --> </SCRIPT>Nic <NOSCRIPT> Nic </NOSCRIPT> [/FONT]</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=bottom colSpan=3><HR></TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=3>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->While talking ot my dad abot getting his 75 out of the garage and running again (after 10+ yrs) he was mentioning how the engine left something to be desired in the horsepower area, but the handling was great, so he thought that posibbly a Madza rotary would wake up the car, and still maintain the weight of the original engine, has anyone done this or heard of anyone that has? does the rotary spin the same diffection?
rotaries are very powerful yet compact engines, a 13b with a turbo (c1990) can put out close to 200hp but is roughly the size of a typical 4 cyl, and by porting(milling the intake and exhuast ports) it can gaing an aditional 30-45 hp
any ideas?<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellPadding=4 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top noWrap align=left>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial] [/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]
[/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR><TR><TD>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]Author[/FONT]</TD><TD>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]Reply[/FONT]</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top noWrap width="17.9%">[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]Ulix[/FONT]
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 15px" vAlign=top><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=left>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->Ro-X<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT][FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]June 15 1999, 11:49 AM [/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 15px">
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->Hmmm, what transmission would you use?
Remember, the X1/9 drivetrain is from a FWD car, so engine and trans are transverse. The stock tranny won't hold up to the power, so you'd have to find a transaxle that can be bolted to the rotary.
Sounds like a lot of R&D...
With the right mods, the stock engine can be made have enough power for the car while still being streetable.
Ulix<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
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[/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top noWrap width="17.9%">[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<SCRIPT language=Javascript> <!-- var n54_em; n54_em = ""; n54_em = n54_em + "s";n54_em = n54_em + "e";n54_em = n54_em + "a";n54_em = n54_em + "t";n54_em = n54_em + "t";n54_em = n54_em + "l";n54_em = n54_em + "e";n54_em = n54_em + "x";n54_em = n54_em + "1";n54_em = n54_em + "9";n54_em = n54_em + "@";n54_em = n54_em + "y";n54_em = n54_em + "a";n54_em = n54_em + "h";n54_em = n54_em + "o";n54_em = n54_em + "o";n54_em = n54_em + ".";n54_em = n54_em + "c";n54_em = n54_em + "o";n54_em = n54_em + "m"; document.write("Mac"); // --> </SCRIPT>Mac <NOSCRIPT> Mac </NOSCRIPT>[/FONT]
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 30px" vAlign=top><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=left>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->Rotary powered X1/9<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT][FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]June 15 1999, 4:10 PM [/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 30px">
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->I remember, back in the mid '80s, there was a company in California that specialised in rotary-conversions. I saw their ad in the back of some car magazine back then. They did Porsche 914s, MGs, and many other small cars. If I recall I believe they also had a "conversion kit" for the X1/9... however it has been ages since I saw that ad and I don't recall the company name.
Point being though that it can be (and has been) done. There is currently a member of our group who is planning such a conversion. Go to our site's "Registry" page, select Washington, and look him up. His name's Jeff Wilcken and if you're serious, he'd probably be interested in hearing from you. Peace, -Mac.<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
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[/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top noWrap width="17.9%">[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<SCRIPT language=Javascript> <!-- var n54_em; n54_em = ""; n54_em = n54_em + "j";n54_em = n54_em + "e";n54_em = n54_em + "f";n54_em = n54_em + "f";n54_em = n54_em + "2";n54_em = n54_em + "0";n54_em = n54_em + "b";n54_em = n54_em + "@";n54_em = n54_em + "h";n54_em = n54_em + "o";n54_em = n54_em + "t";n54_em = n54_em + "m";n54_em = n54_em + "a";n54_em = n54_em + "i";n54_em = n54_em + "l";n54_em = n54_em + ".";n54_em = n54_em + "c";n54_em = n54_em + "o";n54_em = n54_em + "m"; document.write("Jeff Wilcken"); // --> </SCRIPT>Jeff Wilcken <NOSCRIPT> Jeff Wilcken </NOSCRIPT>[/FONT]
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 45px" vAlign=top><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=left>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->RE X<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT][FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]June 17 1999, 11:41 AM [/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 45px">
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->There are a few things to take into account with this conversion. I believe that the X engine spins opposite the rotary so most likely a tranny from a VW GTI will be needed, an upgraded radiator with a good oil cooler are needed as well, the half shaft from the tranny to the wheel will need to clear the engine as it is slightly wider than the piston engine, and there are a few more things to consider, but that's just about the size of it.
You only want to rotarize a car that will actually be worth something once the conversion is done, otherwise it's just a novelty (there's nothing wrong with that, it's just if you ever wanted to sell the car, etc) and in my opinion, the X1/9 is a bit tougher than say an MG/128 Spider or Porche/VW/Subaru conversion, but still worthwile nonetheless (I'm planning it with one of my X's!).
Have any of you ever checked out the info on the Moller International web page? The have built a Rotapower engine which is similar to the Mazda rotary engine except that it is much more versital, and could be adapted to work in the X1/9 far better than the Mazda rotary. It has almost zero emissions, uses less gas for the same amount of HP, is smaller in diameter, weighs less, can run in one rotor form all the way up to six rotors, and doesn't need much cooling (the stock X1/9 radiator is probably sufficient). The only problems are cost and availability. You need to check out the link to Freedom Motors. I think they're the company that is now in charge of producing the Rotapower engine. I've written both companys email with similar concerns to what I've just written about here such as "can I put your engine in my Mazda or Fiat?" and Moller added a line to their faq stating that the rotapower engine is currently not configured properly to run in an automotive setting just yet or something like that. Freedom hasen't acknowledged my email at all. Maybe if all of us here at Seattle X1/9 wrote them lotsa emails they may see that there realy is a concern out there regarding rotary conversions in small cars. If they designed a kit that lots of people would purchase, the cost could be driven down to the point that we could'nt afford not to do this conversion as opposed to, say a different conversion. More power, less emissions, smoother, wider powerband, ease of rebuildability, the possibilities are endless!<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
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[/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top noWrap width="17.9%">[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<SCRIPT language=Javascript> <!-- var n54_em; n54_em = ""; n54_em = n54_em + "s";n54_em = n54_em + "e";n54_em = n54_em + "a";n54_em = n54_em + "t";n54_em = n54_em + "t";n54_em = n54_em + "l";n54_em = n54_em + "e";n54_em = n54_em + "x";n54_em = n54_em + "1";n54_em = n54_em + "9";n54_em = n54_em + "@";n54_em = n54_em + "y";n54_em = n54_em + "a";n54_em = n54_em + "h";n54_em = n54_em + "o";n54_em = n54_em + "o";n54_em = n54_em + ".";n54_em = n54_em + "c";n54_em = n54_em + "o";n54_em = n54_em + "m"; document.write("Mac"); // --> </SCRIPT>Mac <NOSCRIPT> Mac </NOSCRIPT>[/FONT]
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 60px" vAlign=top><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=left>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->Wow, Jeff!<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT][FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]June 17 1999, 5:48 PM [/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 60px">
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->Impressive
I must start out by saying something here: I, personally, am totally happy with the Fiat SOHC engines that came in the X1/9. Granted, they are relatively underpowered in 100% stock form, but with just a few mods ranging from 'blindfolded' to 'not too difficult' the 1300cc or 1500cc engines can both be set free, so to speak.
Most of the stock engine's limitations are a result NOT of the engine having little potential, but in that the STOCK setup is rather restrictive on the engine. These engines can really scream (!) if you are willing to tweak them to some degree. Not only that, but if one is going to go to the effort to do such hefty modification as installing a completely different drivetrain, then in comparison the Fiat SOHC tweaks seem very simple indeed!
That said, it is at the same time impressive (there's that word again) to witness someone who is doing heavy mods like that. I have owned an original bodystyle RX-7 for a while. It was very hot for its size and weight. The day I bought it I accidentally (and because I was a kid) spun the tires through the first 3 gears whilst going nearly sideways up a freeway onramp. Yikes!~
Also, one of my best friends used to own a Fiat Spider 2000 that had a $7,000 pro rotary conversion done to it just before fate brought the car into his ownership. We used to dragrace Corvettes, Mustangs, all the 'muscle cars' in sight - that guy feared no one when in his Spider! Used to blow peoples' minds that they could be pushing their foot thru their V8's floorboard and still have this little white Fiat, top down, casually keeping pace alongside... with us grinning widely all the while! He claims in modesty that he got beat a few times but the only thing I ever personally witnessed was a tie with a ZR1 on the freeway, and it was only because we both ran out of pavement.
With all that in mind, I would be the first one in line to see a Rotary powered X1/9, although I am not the type to do it to my X, it would most definitely be a worthwhile conversion. Yup
So Jeff, which X of yours are you planning to convert? You do still have them both, right? -Mac.<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=4 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top align=left>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial] [/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top noWrap align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]
[/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top noWrap width="17.9%">[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]Jeff[/FONT]
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 75px" vAlign=top><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=left>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->RE (rotary engine) X, my poor tranny<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT][FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]June 18 1999, 6:18 PM [/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 75px">
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->Yeah, I still do! I don't know which X I'll do the conversion on. I've got to get the tranny fixed in the gold one first so I can start driving it, and then go from there.
Does anybody out there know how easy it is to dismantle an X tranny? I think the only problem with it is the shifter linkage is out of adjustment. The previous owner banged it on something when he was trying to install the tranny right after it was rebuilt (d'oh!) so I'm hoping that I can remove this and that to get at the set screw and loosen and retighten it after realigning the fork(s). I've never done anything like this before and I don't know what I'm getting into. Any info would be greatly appreciated.
Oh, and I will still talk rotaries if that guy has any other questions.<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=4 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top align=left>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial] [/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top noWrap align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]
[/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top noWrap width="17.9%">[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]Mac[/FONT]
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 90px" vAlign=top><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=left>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->ahh, the tranny<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT][FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]June 20 1999, 10:31 AM [/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 90px">
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->
Actually, I have a couple of additional questions re: conversion. How did you arrive at the idea of a VW GTI tranny specifically? Is this a unit that will mate up to the rotary without too much hassle or something?
Also, how will you handle the proposition of axle shafts? Will you be doing custom shafts with GTI splines inboard and Fiat splines outboard? Or will you be replacing the whole of the rear end with non-Fiat stuff?
When the guys did my friend's Spider conversion, they had simply yanked the whole Fiat rearend and used a Mazda RX7 rearend - of course, on the Spider, it's a front-engine, rear-wheel drive so that was the logical choice to go with the rotary (they did have to fabricate a custom driveshaft though). With the X though it would prove to be a whole different buildup, as now we're talking mid-engine, rear-wheel drive. How do you plan to tackle that issue?
On your question, I have done partial disassembly of the X trannies for inspection, but have never rebuilt one. Several of our group's members though have done it many times. If no one chimes-in here on the subject, try using the Registry pages to email any of the folks who are experienced at this. -Mac
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[/FONT][FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]June 14 1999 at 10:30 PM[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT][/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<SCRIPT language=Javascript> <!-- var n54_em; n54_em = ""; n54_em = n54_em + "g";n54_em = n54_em + "i";n54_em = n54_em + "l";n54_em = n54_em + "l";n54_em = n54_em + "a";n54_em = n54_em + "n";n54_em = n54_em + "o";n54_em = n54_em + "@";n54_em = n54_em + "r";n54_em = n54_em + "o";n54_em = n54_em + "c";n54_em = n54_em + "k";n54_em = n54_em + "e";n54_em = n54_em + "t";n54_em = n54_em + "m";n54_em = n54_em + "a";n54_em = n54_em + "i";n54_em = n54_em + "l";n54_em = n54_em + ".";n54_em = n54_em + "c";n54_em = n54_em + "o";n54_em = n54_em + "m"; document.write("Nic"); // --> </SCRIPT>Nic <NOSCRIPT> Nic </NOSCRIPT> [/FONT]</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=bottom colSpan=3><HR></TD></TR><TR><TD colSpan=3>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->While talking ot my dad abot getting his 75 out of the garage and running again (after 10+ yrs) he was mentioning how the engine left something to be desired in the horsepower area, but the handling was great, so he thought that posibbly a Madza rotary would wake up the car, and still maintain the weight of the original engine, has anyone done this or heard of anyone that has? does the rotary spin the same diffection?
rotaries are very powerful yet compact engines, a 13b with a turbo (c1990) can put out close to 200hp but is roughly the size of a typical 4 cyl, and by porting(milling the intake and exhuast ports) it can gaing an aditional 30-45 hp
any ideas?<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellPadding=4 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top noWrap align=left>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial] [/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 15px" vAlign=top><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=left>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->Ro-X<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT][FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]June 15 1999, 11:49 AM [/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 15px">
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->Hmmm, what transmission would you use?
Remember, the X1/9 drivetrain is from a FWD car, so engine and trans are transverse. The stock tranny won't hold up to the power, so you'd have to find a transaxle that can be bolted to the rotary.
Sounds like a lot of R&D...
With the right mods, the stock engine can be made have enough power for the car while still being streetable.
Ulix<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
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[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 30px" vAlign=top><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=left>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->Rotary powered X1/9<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT][FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]June 15 1999, 4:10 PM [/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 30px">
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->I remember, back in the mid '80s, there was a company in California that specialised in rotary-conversions. I saw their ad in the back of some car magazine back then. They did Porsche 914s, MGs, and many other small cars. If I recall I believe they also had a "conversion kit" for the X1/9... however it has been ages since I saw that ad and I don't recall the company name.
Point being though that it can be (and has been) done. There is currently a member of our group who is planning such a conversion. Go to our site's "Registry" page, select Washington, and look him up. His name's Jeff Wilcken and if you're serious, he'd probably be interested in hearing from you. Peace, -Mac.<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
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[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 45px" vAlign=top><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=left>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->RE X<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT][FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]June 17 1999, 11:41 AM [/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 45px">
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->There are a few things to take into account with this conversion. I believe that the X engine spins opposite the rotary so most likely a tranny from a VW GTI will be needed, an upgraded radiator with a good oil cooler are needed as well, the half shaft from the tranny to the wheel will need to clear the engine as it is slightly wider than the piston engine, and there are a few more things to consider, but that's just about the size of it.
You only want to rotarize a car that will actually be worth something once the conversion is done, otherwise it's just a novelty (there's nothing wrong with that, it's just if you ever wanted to sell the car, etc) and in my opinion, the X1/9 is a bit tougher than say an MG/128 Spider or Porche/VW/Subaru conversion, but still worthwile nonetheless (I'm planning it with one of my X's!).
Have any of you ever checked out the info on the Moller International web page? The have built a Rotapower engine which is similar to the Mazda rotary engine except that it is much more versital, and could be adapted to work in the X1/9 far better than the Mazda rotary. It has almost zero emissions, uses less gas for the same amount of HP, is smaller in diameter, weighs less, can run in one rotor form all the way up to six rotors, and doesn't need much cooling (the stock X1/9 radiator is probably sufficient). The only problems are cost and availability. You need to check out the link to Freedom Motors. I think they're the company that is now in charge of producing the Rotapower engine. I've written both companys email with similar concerns to what I've just written about here such as "can I put your engine in my Mazda or Fiat?" and Moller added a line to their faq stating that the rotapower engine is currently not configured properly to run in an automotive setting just yet or something like that. Freedom hasen't acknowledged my email at all. Maybe if all of us here at Seattle X1/9 wrote them lotsa emails they may see that there realy is a concern out there regarding rotary conversions in small cars. If they designed a kit that lots of people would purchase, the cost could be driven down to the point that we could'nt afford not to do this conversion as opposed to, say a different conversion. More power, less emissions, smoother, wider powerband, ease of rebuildability, the possibilities are endless!<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=4 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top align=left>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial] [/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top noWrap align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 60px" vAlign=top><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=left>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->Wow, Jeff!<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT][FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]June 17 1999, 5:48 PM [/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 60px">
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->Impressive
I must start out by saying something here: I, personally, am totally happy with the Fiat SOHC engines that came in the X1/9. Granted, they are relatively underpowered in 100% stock form, but with just a few mods ranging from 'blindfolded' to 'not too difficult' the 1300cc or 1500cc engines can both be set free, so to speak.
Most of the stock engine's limitations are a result NOT of the engine having little potential, but in that the STOCK setup is rather restrictive on the engine. These engines can really scream (!) if you are willing to tweak them to some degree. Not only that, but if one is going to go to the effort to do such hefty modification as installing a completely different drivetrain, then in comparison the Fiat SOHC tweaks seem very simple indeed!
That said, it is at the same time impressive (there's that word again) to witness someone who is doing heavy mods like that. I have owned an original bodystyle RX-7 for a while. It was very hot for its size and weight. The day I bought it I accidentally (and because I was a kid) spun the tires through the first 3 gears whilst going nearly sideways up a freeway onramp. Yikes!~
Also, one of my best friends used to own a Fiat Spider 2000 that had a $7,000 pro rotary conversion done to it just before fate brought the car into his ownership. We used to dragrace Corvettes, Mustangs, all the 'muscle cars' in sight - that guy feared no one when in his Spider! Used to blow peoples' minds that they could be pushing their foot thru their V8's floorboard and still have this little white Fiat, top down, casually keeping pace alongside... with us grinning widely all the while! He claims in modesty that he got beat a few times but the only thing I ever personally witnessed was a tie with a ZR1 on the freeway, and it was only because we both ran out of pavement.
With all that in mind, I would be the first one in line to see a Rotary powered X1/9, although I am not the type to do it to my X, it would most definitely be a worthwhile conversion. Yup
So Jeff, which X of yours are you planning to convert? You do still have them both, right? -Mac.<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
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[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 75px" vAlign=top><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=left>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->RE (rotary engine) X, my poor tranny<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT][FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]June 18 1999, 6:18 PM [/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 75px">
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->Yeah, I still do! I don't know which X I'll do the conversion on. I've got to get the tranny fixed in the gold one first so I can start driving it, and then go from there.
Does anybody out there know how easy it is to dismantle an X tranny? I think the only problem with it is the shifter linkage is out of adjustment. The previous owner banged it on something when he was trying to install the tranny right after it was rebuilt (d'oh!) so I'm hoping that I can remove this and that to get at the set screw and loosen and retighten it after realigning the fork(s). I've never done anything like this before and I don't know what I'm getting into. Any info would be greatly appreciated.
Oh, and I will still talk rotaries if that guy has any other questions.<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=4 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top align=left>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial] [/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top noWrap align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 90px" vAlign=top><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD align=left>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->ahh, the tranny<!-- google_ad_section_end -->
[/FONT][FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial][/FONT]</TD><TD vAlign=top align=right>[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]June 20 1999, 10:31 AM [/FONT]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE><TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=1 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-LEFT: 90px">
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Verdana, Tahoma, Arial]<!-- google_ad_section_start -->
Actually, I have a couple of additional questions re: conversion. How did you arrive at the idea of a VW GTI tranny specifically? Is this a unit that will mate up to the rotary without too much hassle or something?
Also, how will you handle the proposition of axle shafts? Will you be doing custom shafts with GTI splines inboard and Fiat splines outboard? Or will you be replacing the whole of the rear end with non-Fiat stuff?
When the guys did my friend's Spider conversion, they had simply yanked the whole Fiat rearend and used a Mazda RX7 rearend - of course, on the Spider, it's a front-engine, rear-wheel drive so that was the logical choice to go with the rotary (they did have to fabricate a custom driveshaft though). With the X though it would prove to be a whole different buildup, as now we're talking mid-engine, rear-wheel drive. How do you plan to tackle that issue?
On your question, I have done partial disassembly of the X trannies for inspection, but have never rebuilt one. Several of our group's members though have done it many times. If no one chimes-in here on the subject, try using the Registry pages to email any of the folks who are experienced at this. -Mac
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