metalshapes
Low Mileage
I read TonyK's thread about his 500 Abarth swap, and another one has a few posts deleted.
What I've learned from those is that the everything is connected to everything, electronically, and it is all made to be tamper proof.
Seems to me, this is much more complicated than I need for a non emissions racecar that will be used on the track only.
So here are my questions...
Would it be possible to override the solenoid that contols the valve timing?
I think I'd only need the power mode ( plus possibly the low RPM torque mode).
I plan to use a Hewland racing transmission, so I will have unlimited ratios to choose from to keep it in its powerband.
As long as it will start, and idle, somewhat...
I'd probably get rid of the fuel injection system, and use a boost referenced mechanical Hillborn instead.
Or make a new intake to adapt a carb and pressure box off a '80s Maserati Biturbo ( I've done this on my Pinto powered sandrail, and it works very well )
Or pressurized IDF Webers, thanks to the off road VW guys everything is available for that as well.
Which leaves the ignition.
But it seems to me a simple & basic stand alone system would take care of that.
What I haven't been able to find out yet is what the engine weight is.
( stripped of everything it doesn't need, like A/C pump, power steering, and whatever else might be there. I'd like to keep the alternator, but I might put in a smaller one if it seems too heavy )
Engine weight is pretty crucial for me, my car is light and the engine hangs out behind the rear axle.
It would be really easy to mess up the weight distribution.
And the actual size of the engine is important too, I have lots of room to the sides and the rear, but not so much in height.
What are your thoughts on all this?
Is the engine itself sturdy and reliable enough to make it worth my while?
At the stock 165Hp it probably isn't stressed that high...
What I've learned from those is that the everything is connected to everything, electronically, and it is all made to be tamper proof.
Seems to me, this is much more complicated than I need for a non emissions racecar that will be used on the track only.
So here are my questions...
Would it be possible to override the solenoid that contols the valve timing?
I think I'd only need the power mode ( plus possibly the low RPM torque mode).
I plan to use a Hewland racing transmission, so I will have unlimited ratios to choose from to keep it in its powerband.
As long as it will start, and idle, somewhat...
I'd probably get rid of the fuel injection system, and use a boost referenced mechanical Hillborn instead.
Or make a new intake to adapt a carb and pressure box off a '80s Maserati Biturbo ( I've done this on my Pinto powered sandrail, and it works very well )
Or pressurized IDF Webers, thanks to the off road VW guys everything is available for that as well.
Which leaves the ignition.
But it seems to me a simple & basic stand alone system would take care of that.
What I haven't been able to find out yet is what the engine weight is.
( stripped of everything it doesn't need, like A/C pump, power steering, and whatever else might be there. I'd like to keep the alternator, but I might put in a smaller one if it seems too heavy )
Engine weight is pretty crucial for me, my car is light and the engine hangs out behind the rear axle.
It would be really easy to mess up the weight distribution.
And the actual size of the engine is important too, I have lots of room to the sides and the rear, but not so much in height.
What are your thoughts on all this?
Is the engine itself sturdy and reliable enough to make it worth my while?
At the stock 165Hp it probably isn't stressed that high...