Tornado motor options

matt4 · 01-21-04, 12:58 PM

Hi guys,
I have wanted to build a GT40 kit for years. I've decided to go ahead and start with the motor to see how I get on and limit my investment for the time being. So...

If I were to go for Tornado kit, am I better off holding out for a Ford 302? The TS40 info says the Ford goes straight in but I can't seem to find a basket case 302 for love nor money, but if only minor chassis mods are needed, what other engine options are there?

I realise the Ford is more authentic, but could a small block Chevy aslo fit (I know, I know, exhausts, gearbox etc)? If anyone with Tornado building experience could offer me some guidance, that would be great.

Thanks

Matthew

Tony Hunt · 01-21-04, 01:40 PM

Matthew,
If you fitted any other engine than a Ford V8, you would regret it for ever more and your car would be worth quite a bit less when compared with an otherwise identical one.
The 302 certainly goes in with least problems with coupling to the Renault 21 box - engine mounts, adapter plates etc are all available.
There are plenty of 302s around in UK (I think Frank Catt is selling one complete with gearbox, but I can never find threads again once I've read them!), the 351W is also an option, but because it's bigger it's a bit more of a squeeze. The SVO 302 produces useful power and is therefore more desirable.
If you haven't been yet, come up to the GT40 Enthusiasts Club Hants/Berks meeting at Bullington Cross on the third Tuesday of the month. There will be plenty of people there to give advice. Unfortunately, the January meeting was last night!

Tony Hunt · 01-21-04, 01:53 PM

[ QUOTE ]
I think Frank Catt is selling one complete with gearbox

[/ QUOTE ]

Found it!

JP · 01-21-04, 02:28 PM

This will fit.

A 302 SVO stroked to 331ci

Paul Thompson 'Hooligan' · 01-21-04, 03:40 PM

Look closely Tony [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]
That Ford Frank is selling is a Big Block and whilst it might? be possible to fit it, it would take one hell of a lot of squeezing!!!

Paul W · 01-21-04, 03:51 PM

I bought my 302 at Stateside Autoparts in birmingham.
It was sold as seen off the shelf and they also got all of my parts to rebuild it and arranged reboring/balancing.
They have deliveries from the states once a month.
Speak to Richard and mention Paul (Gt40 Man)
01827717600
http://www.statesideautoparts.co.uk/

Mike Dozier · 01-21-04, 06:27 PM

Matt

Best of luck locating a 302. You won't regret it.
I am embarrassed to tell you how cheap these things
are in the US...but then again, other than ERA ($$$)
we don't have anyone building GT40s in the US, and NO supply of used GT40s to buy...I think you guys got the better deal.

MikeD

Tony Hunt · 01-22-04, 04:43 AM

[ QUOTE ]
Look closely Tony
That Ford Frank is selling is a Big Block and whilst it might? be possible to fit it, it would take one hell of a lot of squeezing!!!

[/ QUOTE ]
I DID say that it would be a bit of a squeeze!!
Just left the detail to the real experts!!

Julian West · 01-22-04, 04:47 AM

Matt,

Try lookng in American classic mag (WHS) or findit.co.uk, also the custom car mags would be a good place to look.

Just hang in there, there are plenty around!

Rick Chattell · 01-22-04, 12:42 PM

Hi Matthew,

There was a company displaying at Exeter Kit Car Show (cant remember the name, but it would be easy to find out) that were selling 350hp 302's apparently including ancils for £3.5k.

Rick

matt4 · 01-22-04, 02:51 PM

Tony,

Thanks for the heads up on the meet, I'll try to be there

A 302 it is then. [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]

Matthew

matt4 · 01-22-04, 02:57 PM

JP,
OMG, that's awesome.

Guys, I'm made up. Thanks for the advice and such a warm welcome to the BB. It's certainly not going to be my last post. I'll try to make the next club meeting, new job/house move/wife allowing.

Thanks again.

matthew [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img] [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img] [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif[/img]