TT or SuperCharged 3.8L in a 40?

[Knighton]

Boo - Hiss Hiss.

Has anyone considered using a GM 3.8L either in TT or supercharged trim?

It is my understanding that these engines are extremely durable and are capable of producing decent hp numbers. Those I have spoke with claim (from those who work on these engines) that the 3.8L can easily make and take 450hp via Twin Turbo. Supercharging would not produce as high horsepower numbers.

Which gearbox would be needed?

A friend had an 87 Buick Grand National a few years back - installed a performance chip and a few other modifications - including tilting the gas tank forward so he could accelerate hard with only a 1/4 tank (otherwise it would stall). I remeber impressive acceleration at 140 mph. I do believe the car was making over 400hp.

 

[Ron Earp]

You'll find a lot of info on the web regarding the GM 3.8L motor as used in the Buick Grand National and the GMC Syclone (also Turbo Regal (83-86) and a limited number of Pontiac Firehawks, circa 1989 if I remember correctly. These are single turbo motors that can produce some really impressive hp numbers, typically around 400+ with larger turbo, injectors, intercooler, exhaust, and head work. However, they are not particularily light and you could turbocharge a Ford or Chevy (ughhh) V8 just as easily for more insane levels of power....

These never appeared in any car with a transaxle, therefore, you'll be on your own with making an adapter to fit whichever gear box you want.

Just a thought - any level of power you get from this motor can probably be duplicated with a V8 for less cash. And, you don't have to say it is a six. I like them but a V8 has a proper home in a 40..

 

[James]

Knighton,

You should be strung and beaten with a big stick for thinking such a thing. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif And turbos? They are for girls! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif ..... and superchargers?? They are for that new thing made by Ford the "New overweight, pickup engine powered, oversized attempt for a 40" /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

Serious note. Some work would need to be done to fit the engine. And I have no idea what gearbox might be used. Like Ron says a V8 would be cheaper, in keeping with a GT40, and you can get same power easily. Especially from a 351ci.

Regards,

J.P

 

[Paul Thompson 'Hooligan']

Hmmmm.

As a 'boosted' enthusiast - I wonder what 6 times national hill climb champion, or Cosi for that matter would think of being called girls?

With 1300BHP+ between them in their two GTD40s I'd say they are anything but 'girly'... /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

Now, suitably modified, I wonder what 20lbs of boost on Roy's 347 would do to my internal organs? /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/tongue.gif

 

[James]

[ QUOTE ]
Hmmmm.

As a 'boosted' enthusiast - I wonder what 6 times national hill climb champion, or Cosi for that matter would think of being called girls?

With 1300BHP+ between them in their two GTD40s I'd say they are anything but 'girly'... /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

Now, suitably modified, I wonder what 20lbs of boost on Roy's 347 would do to my internal organs? /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/tongue.gif

[/ QUOTE ]

YOU BIG GIRL YOU!! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

Regards,

J.P

 

[Ron Earp]

Paul, I like turbo and supercharged cars and have owned a few. I think you guys should do it! Roy's car already seems quite fast, this would certainly take it to the next level. And maybe the next gearbox as well,

Ron

 

[MWGT40]

Paul,

Please tell me you are joking! Roy's GTD is so quick as it is already, what chance will us lesser mortals have now!

Martin /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/shocked.gif

 

[Knighton]

Thanks for the info Ron.

I thought I'd throw it out there and duck from the wrath! /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/blush.gif

I like the idea of a high reving 302 and the sound it would make at 7500-8000 rpm. However, I would like some low end grunt and am not sure what kind of torque a Levy 306 makes at those low rpm.

Ron you own an RF; is there any room to supercharge in the engine bay of an RF? Would I be better going with a 331 for more low rpm punch? I do want a high reving engine and recall a post by Gordon Levy who said one of his 306's with forced induction sounded F1 like! Will I get this with a 331 or 347?

The larger displacement engines have more of a flat, deep exhaust note - something I do not want. I prefer a higher pitched raspy whail instead. Any suggestions?

Thanks

 

[Ron Earp]

The 306 will have plently of grunt at low RPM for a 2200 lb car. If that isn't enough, build a 331 or 342 - both can be built to rev high and will provide even more torque.

There is enough room for blowers, but, maybe not of the type you'll need.

If you want low-end grunt you'll need a positive displacement blower such as an Eaton or Kenne Bell, not a centrifugal blower such as a Vortech. If you used a modern 5.0L motor you could fit a Kenne Bell blower on it, there are lots of kits for these from Kenne Bell, but you'd have the modify the rear deck of the 40 under the glass to do it.

There isn't any difference in exhaust note with a 331 or 347, they're all SB Fords breathing through the same exhaust and will sound basically the same. If I were you I'd start checking out builders of 331s and 347s and get one that can hit some high RPM - you'll have everything you want.

Ron