Tornado motor options

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]

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]

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


[/ QUOTE ]

Found it!

 

[James]

This will fit.

A 302 SVO stroked to 331ci

 

[Paul Thompson 'Hooligan']

Look closely Tony /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif
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]

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]

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]

[ 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]

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!

 

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

 

Tony,

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

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

Matthew

 

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 /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif