more motor questions

Chris Kouba

Supporter
So I've been poking through the search engine and trying to figure out what exactly is needed to fit a SBF into a chassis.

For instance, if I wanted to fit the Keith Craft 306 motor (linked here) into an RCR chassis, would I have any issues regarding pulleys or accessories wanting to occupy the firewall's space? They're very vague with not specifying what's on the front, v-belt or serpentine, etc... Hopefully this will leave it open for me to specify. Which leads me to...

The current research I've done (thanks to the forum) has lead me to the succinct posting of our fearless leader (RLEarp):

"...you can use all the bits from an Explorer 5.0L or 94-95 Mustang, or 91-92 Tbird/Cougar V8. Slight variations in each year, so don't mix and match, but these will give you the tightest configurations."

That was posted back in '04. Is this still accurate or has another better combination surfaced in the interim? Does someone have the p/n's for each combination captured for reference?

On a side note, I chatted today with a guy from Keith Craft who basically told me to tell him what I want and he'd build it for me. To me that's why I'm calling him- I want to capitalize on his knowledge and was expecting him to tell me which combination is the shortest and would fit the best. Does this seem unreasonable? Anybody have similar experiences? Is there someone there I should ask to speak with?

Anyone have a motor (one that will fit in a 40) which they're looking to find a good home for?

Thanks,
Chris
 

Ron Earp

Admin
Those bits that I listed will give you the shortest front dress using off the shelf bits and a serpentine belt setup. It is good and close.

I'm now using a FMS shorty style water pump and custom pullies (http://www.gt40s.com/forum/tech-engines-induction/19107-front-dress-what-mess.html) and it is about the same length, maybe not as tight.

There are so many different ways to put the front of a Ford motor together that it can boggle the mind. If you want to use a serpentine belt, use that setup from the 94-95 Mustang, which is the same as the late model Explorer with 5.0L. If you are doing a v belt then use tha shorty style pump, but be prepared to fiddle around with pulley, spacer, etc. because nobody offers an off the shelf solution.

Now, a little bird told me that Fran is making those pulleys I had trouble finding after I had such trouble getting them....you might be about to simply get them from him, get that shorty water pump, and be done....

R
 

Sandy

Gulf GT40
Lifetime Supporter
Chris -

I spoke with Keith (Keith Craft) directly, and asked about the engine accessories and he will do just about anything you need (Short pump, Armondo oil pan, and don't forget the small cap distributor which may be required for efi/webers/bulk head clearance). The trick to getting Keith on the phone is either spend a ton of money or start asking all kinds of questions to the regular guys, and eventually they will get you on the phone with Keith ;)

The question is how is fitment into the RCR with a regular pump and pulley setup and your selected transmission... On my car I'm guessing a good sized bump for the waterpump pulley for a couple of reasons, one is the trans is a 930, but not the short (or shortned) bell 930 (that could move the motor back I think an inch or so), then the Racemate waterpump/alternator has a large diameter top pulley that is not tapered back like most of the top water pump pullies (ones without a alternator built in).

I would definintly chat with Fran when he gets back from his 'Vacation' and find out what he is doing for pullies, and he should have a good idea about the various trans combo's and how the motor can move because of that. You might be fine with Trans 'X' and a std pump and pulley who knows (well Fran likely does)


Sandy
 
I'm working on the front dress of mine right now.
I bought the FMS short pump and matching pulleys
because it makes for a cheap/simple/compact package.
The Sanden A/C brackets are universal mount type available anywhere,
and the alternator brackets are simple home made.

Knowing Fran, I'd be amazed if the RCR doesn't have sufficient room
to readily accomodate either the Explorer or FMS set-ups,'
but best to check with him before buying.

MikeD
 
I hope to install my 331 with short water pump and short pulleys in another couple of weeks. I'll be sure to post pictures of the "event".
 

Chris Kouba

Supporter
Yeah, I suppose it'd be best to chat with Fran regarding this but I had high hopes for the people at Keith Craft. I'll see what I can do to get him on the phone next time instead.

I'm looking at an RCR w/SBF spinning a ZF. Bill- I can't wait to see yours installed. Your car's looking sweet!

I haven't done the research yet but does anyone have a good recommendation (brand, P/N) for a SBF sump? Bill- what are you using?

Chris
 
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