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spaceframe Mini engine combination options
will121 - 4/3/18 at 07:02 PM

just took on another project! a spaceframe RWD mini rolling chassis based around a locost layout, its a smart looking structure but now looking for ideas on engine gearbox combinations. its not specifically light weight with steel panels and not caught by the bike engine idea, so thinking of engine gearbox combinations.

previously been a zetec convert but looking for lighter options mx5 - 1.7 puma engine (does it fit a type 9?)

Any thoughts??


StevieB - 4/3/18 at 09:15 PM

How about a Ford Sigma?

Plus - got any pics? I do like a spaceframe mini

ETA just spotted you mentioned the Puma engine, also comes in 1.6 form from fiestas and the like. Light and compact, fairly easy to make RWD I believe and can be fitted up to the Type 9 - Shawspeed can do all of the parts needed (I looked at this as a conversion for my Westy once upon a time)

[Edited on 4/3/18 by StevieB]


will121 - 4/3/18 at 10:06 PM

If only I could get to upload photos, I think the size of the sigma might fit better than most, don't know if the 1.6 is different gearbox to the 1.7 though


mini-sprite - 4/3/18 at 10:24 PM

I've got tons of photo's of mine. RWD 1.8 MX5 Space frame. I don't know how to post photo's now what with the Photobucket debacle. I had a build diary in here but stopped updating as i couldn't update photo's. Its finished now.


lsdweb - 5/3/18 at 08:23 AM

I'll be following this thread!

I've also recently bought a spaceframe mini and currently debating what engine / layout to go for.

Regards

Wyn


Ugg10 - 5/3/18 at 10:47 AM

Just a couple of comments on the Sigma 1.6 vs 1.7 -

1.6 - standard spigot bearing cavity (take the sierra one, 22mm IIRC), no variable valve to control, small and light weight, timing gear is all interference fit/no keys (careful changing the cambelt and use a new stretch bolt for the crank pulley), tunable and will take standard omex 600 or look on this forum for OEM ecu guide. Non standard ford bell housing so need either new bellhousing for type 9 or adaptor plate for RX8 box. Mounting point are at front of engine using the AC and PS pump bolts.

1.7 Puma - has non standard spigot bearing cavity (17mm IIRC) therefore ideally needs crank machining out, needs ecu that will control VCT although Jenko on here got it to work well with VTEC type control (off/on/off - trick is to turn it off again at high revs), same gearbox and timing gear comments.

An alternative is the 1.6 ecoboost - similar block to the non ecoboost zetec SE / sigma engines but obviously much better tuning opportunities (300hp +), uses the same bellhousing as 1.6/1.7 sigma.

Mx5 would be easier as it comes with the RWD box attached.

K Series - often come up as engine swaps with a number of RWD fittings - 1.8 vvc is the pick if you can control the vvc.

Hope this helps.


will121 - 5/3/18 at 11:00 AM

Will upload photos when possible, came with some good extras Sierra lsd diff, vented disc setup all round willwood calipers gaz coil overs, Lott's of well looking steel, currently run a track day 2litr silvertop in a fiesta but the old zetec looks a bit tall


Mr Whippy - 5/3/18 at 12:35 PM

your avatar is completely f&cked btw....


MikeRJ - 5/3/18 at 12:49 PM

Has to be Honda engine. The B series gives you the frantic VTEC action, but they fetch strong money. A 1.6 D series will give ~130bhp or so in a cheap, compact, lightweight and virtually bombproof engine. These can be turbocharged to utterly silly levels of power should you feel the need.

The SOHC D series variants are also a common swap into standard minis.


Ugg10 - 5/3/18 at 04:02 PM

quote:
Originally posted by MikeRJ
Has to be Honda engine. The B series gives you the frantic VTEC action, but they fetch strong money. A 1.6 D series will give ~130bhp or so in a cheap, compact, lightweight and virtually bombproof engine. These can be turbocharged to utterly silly levels of power should you feel the need.

The SOHC D series variants are also a common swap into standard minis.


On the basis that the OP is looking for a longitudinal rwd engine and gearbox the Honda B series is very difficult to do as it turns the opposite way to most other engines and gearboxes. The K20 or F20 with an s2000 gearbox would be OK though but pretty pricey.


will121 - 5/3/18 at 09:14 PM

Ecoboost out my price range, but edging towards a 2litre duratec st150 engine and rx8 gearbox need to check dimensions to confirm room, think bellhousing and tunnel may be an issue for prop and exhaust
Need to check back through all the project Binky YouTube videos


Ugg10 - 5/3/18 at 10:21 PM

quote:
Originally posted by will121
Ecoboost out my price range, but edging towards a 2litre duratec st150 engine and rx8 gearbox need to check dimensions to confirm room, think bellhousing and tunnel may be an issue for prop and exhaust
Need to check back through all the project Binky YouTube videos


Duratec is still quite a tall engine. If you can deal with the box on a slight angle the mx5 mk3 box bolts straight onto the Duratec or sort out with adaptor plate (but then you may as well use an rx8 one). Type 9 on Duratec need a new bell housing. For adaptors look up Freddy686868 on eBay or turbo sport forums.