Engine Swap Query

What are the hazards/advantages/problem areas associated with transplanting a Gen-B engine (w/wiring harness) into a Gen-A chassis?

I am looking at building a supercharged 97, but would prefer to use a KenneBell SC vice a Jackson Racing SC. Unfortunately, KenneBell makes their SCs for 99+ models, hence the needs for an engine swap.

TIA

- L

"Oh bother," said Pooh Bear when he saw the mushroom cloud...

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Reply to
L Bader
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Wouldn't it be easier and cheaper to put Flyin' Miata Turbo to Your '97 than buying and rebuilding the engine?? Except for certain differences between SC and Turbo.

KennieBell SC base (6psi) costs $3700 with intercooler (9psi minus +-1.3 lost in IC) costs about $4700, Flyin Miata turbo with intercooler (8psi)- $3500.

You can upgrade both if more boost needed, but with 92 octane gas I don't think You can go higher than about 9psi unless You put water injection.

Best regards, Kempi

Reply to
Kempi

The turbo may be an easier option. But there are many advantages (from my point of view) to using an SC on a 99+ engine.

First, the 99+ has higher base HP than the 97.

Second, if (when) I build the high performance engine, I plan to do so on a second block, minimizing downtime for my ride. So, while it is on the engine-stand, I'll change some of the internals to strengthen the package (regardless of force induction meathod). But if I'm going to put in a second motor, why not upgrade. (Hence point #1...)

Third, being the son of a 50-60s street-rodder and shadetree mechanic, I have been "programmed" to like blowers and distrust turbos.

Fourth, it is easier to pull an SC out of the loop than a turbo. -- I have two daughters that will soon enter their teens. I foresee insurance nightmares...

I understand the cost differential, but am willing to accept it unless someone can fully convience me a turbo is that much better than a supercharger...

(And yes, I am aiming at 9 psi with a water-air intercooler. Which is why the KenneBell solution is better than the JR rig. -- Less parasetic loss, better heat efficiency, leading to better power...)

Thoughts?

- L

"Oh bother," said Pooh Bear when he saw the mushroom cloud...

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Reply to
L Bader

Don't overlook the nearly-ready FM Ubercharger. It's an intercooled Whipple (twin-screw) supercharger on the cold side, with a planned price point about the same as the FM II turbo. Power should be similar, too, but with a different torque curve.

Reply to
Lanny Chambers

I'm interested in the Ubercharger, but can't find any time-line on availability. (Aside from, "soon"...) Do you know something I don't know?

"Oh bother," said Pooh Bear when he saw the mushroom cloud...

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Reply to
L Bader

We had 1994 GMC 454 that we installed a Whipple Charger on. It pumped 5 to

6 lbs and really got the 454 going. I think we paid about $4,000 for the polished kit. Never did cause any engine problems aside from lousy fuel consumption.

Dale P..............

Reply to
Dale Peterson

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