Hi chaps, ive holted the build of my cradle for the engine cos im not sure what order to do the jobs. firstly im thinking with the engine proped in what i think is about the right place, i should get a prop made up just so i can fit it and jiggle the engine about if need be. i dont want to make the cradle and find i need to adjust it. also was thinking of getting the exhaust manifold made up, again just in case the engine needs slight adjustments so the chassis isnt in the way of the exhaust route. thought id better give it more thought before firing on. thanks for any advise

Hi Billy

As long as your chassis on the exhaust side is pretty standard with the single diagonal, you shouldnt have much problem with exhaust clearance and you'd be better off having the exhaust made to fit after the engine is in place. However if you're buying a manifld off the shelf from MK etc, you'd be better off buying that first and then mounting the engine.

The same with the prop, if you're going to get one made up to your own measurements then put the engine in first with the intention of getting the output shaft as close to the centre line as possible, then measure up and get the prop custom made to fit. If you're buying off the shelf thugh, again buy it first then fit the engine around it

Chris

[Edited on 20/10/05 by ChrisGamlin]

Thanks chris, think i might get exhaust manifold first to make sure. the prop seems to be at quite an angle too man this is a big lump

Billy,
When ordering your two-piece prop, either the front or rear will incorporate a sliding section (depending on type of rear suspension.)
This means that, once the engine is installed, and you give the prop manufacturer the exact measurement between the diff flange and prop adaptor, they will build in a significant tolerance by way of the sliding section - enabling the prop to take up any discrepancies in your measurement.
Hence, its not necessary to obtain a prop before fitting the engine.
As regards a manifold, be aware that various manufacturers line up their engines differently in the engine bay.
E.G Mk have the engine lining up parallel to the engine side rail, whereas others may have it slightly 'twisted' so that the front of the engine is nearer the side rail than the back. (This is how mine is orientated.)
Thus my MK manifold is going to need modifying to prevent the link pipe tapering in towards the body.

Andy.

Hi andy, yeh i thought that might be a problem so at least if i get the manifold i can jiggle motor about till its right then make the cradle up you finished yours yet???

Nope!!!!

Hopefully in time for next summer....