Back on 9/10/95 , you wrote:
>I think your notion of the TR8 engine in the 3a may work.
>
>The Rover V-8 will weigh about the same as the TR3 engine so
>balance shouldn't be affected.
>
>You will have problems with the exhaust system and I would suggest
>that you consider welding up a set of tube headers. By the way, these are
>really fun to do - no kidding. You should be able to pick up a set
>of flanges and the other required plumbing bits at a speed shop. With
>an Edelbrock mainfold and a small Holley four barrel, you should
>be around 180 hp.
Do you know what the hp rating was on the early TR3 motors was?
>The best way to start is to get the engine and 5 speed tranny and dunk
>it in to see what you will need to cut away. Fender wells will
>probably need modification for the exhaust and the transmission
>tunnel will also need bashing. Since, as I recall, the driveline
>goes through the frame crossmember, this may cause trouble because
>you won't have room to adjust engine height or angle.
>
>Driveshaft is a snap. Measure it up and take the TR8 and TR3
>shafts to a driveline shop and ask them to glue one to the other
>with the correct length.
>
>I would use the TR3 electrics and just make a custom mount for
>the TR3 generator.
Will probably convert to a negative ground system so as to install a sound
system, although if any vehicle is fun enough to drive you simply don't need
one - had an Opel GT for awhile some years ago and I mostly used the radio
only when someone else was riding along; or as backgroung music when parked
but I was young & single, that's a different story 8^) !
>I think the stock rear end should handle the extra power.
That's good to hear. Any thoughts as to the gearing ratios involved?
>Cooling may be another problem. An oversize radiator core
>and an electric fan would be my choices if I had problems in that
>area.
Wouldn't imagine any other way!
>In summary, any engine swap has to confront a number of issues,
>these are:
>
>1. Weight differences. You are OK here.
>2. Ability of other components to handle power. Rear end should be OK.
>3. Exhaust system. This will be ugly.
>4. Will it fit? Hell, if you are serious, you can fit anything
> into anything.
Yep! ;)
>5. Electrics. No problem.
>6. Cooling. Unknown but probably will be marginal at best.
>7. Driveline. No problem.
>
>Have fun and keep me posted. By the way, the MGAs worked quite
>well and the Buick engine was 40 pounds lighter than the MGA lump.
Sounds like a nice setup indeed! Any under-the-hood pictures?
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