Building a monster

[AutoExec]

I hope this one would be another hot discussion as I could use some input for sure

So, I picked up the project - pretty nice NA with blown motor. Have a 302 laying around, 8.8 rearend from 89 Thunderbird SuperCoupe and 5 speed transmission from the same.

May lean towards Cobra engine, one guy has one he's selling pretty cheap, but I don't know what kind of engine it is yet.

Either 302 or Cobra motor should bolt up to SC tranny from what I heard. Will see if it actually happen.

My question is - has anybody digged the Internet and know of any links describing how exactly they do those conversions and what's involved. I have a friend who owns metal fabrication shop - he can cut, weld, make whatever is needed, but he's not a mechanic. Neither I am But if I show him what to make and where to put it, he will do it. So, that's what I'm trying to find out - what's needed in terms of body modifications and if there's anything on the internet describing the whole process... Photos would be awesome!

Thanks.

[lbader]

Stan -

Again, you are heading into deeper water than you realize. Even with the parts on hand, you can expect to need a budget of about $10K. - Most current kits run about $20,000 and do not include the labor.

And, once more you are considering mixing bits that won't match. The Cobra engine is a DOHC 90-degree V8 and therefore too wide to fit between the fenders of a Miata.

A 302 can fit, dependant upon which version of the 302 block you start with and which intake manifold you finish with. - One of the advantages to the Ford parts catalog is that you can configure a small block to do whatever you want; low-, mid- or high-power, various torque and rpm ranges, etc. However this is also a great risk for the uneducated because the hazard of mismatching bits and pieces will lead to substandard performance or an expensive failure through component competition.

The *easiest* Ford driveline installation in a Miata is to use the 5.0L from a '79-'93 Mustang. However those engines did not produce more than 250 CRANK horsepower, which after driveline losses will produce less than 215whp. - You can get this from a moderate to serious turbo setup for less money and fewer modifications.

Based on your last stab at gaining more power you allude to limited mechanical expertise and access to the tools and resources to perform the work yourself. This is a much more complicated path than the turbo. You either need the know-how, tools *and* experience to perform a bulk of the work yourself or you need the $$$ to pay someone to build it yourself. - Unless your situation has drastically changed, I do not see you ready to dive into this type of project. A harsh assessment, but honest truth from where I sit.

Don't forget you will still have to address: frame, wiring, fuel system, axles, driveshaft, transmission tunnel, rims/tires, brakes and exhaust.

Go here: http://forum.miata.net/vb/forumdisplay.php?f=38 and research before you spend another cent on the project.

- L

[AutoExec]

Yep, something changed. I do have many tools now, compressor, impact tools etc., place to do it (not my garage) and a mechanic who works for me at only $8/hour. So I thought - why not? I have a donor, engine, tranny, rearend and cheap labor.

However, after some research I see I'd have to buy some kit anyways... Martin's at least. So it's at least $4K to start with. Not worth it...

So, I already changed my mind before I even read your message and now parting out the donor instead. BTW, anybody need NA parts? I have everything excepts for the motor... And almost new top with glass heated window. Or donor for Monster? I can sell the whole car and all that stuff I've got (rearend, tranny etc.)

Need to grow up and save more money before I start something like this

[lbader]

Stan -

Good to hear you're thinking more with your head than your heart. (No matter how painful it might be...) - I looked at doing the V8 swap before going FI on my car; and am still considering it for my next project...

Regarding the NA parts, contact George Briscoe. He might be in need of some of the components you have on hand.

Cheers!

- L

[Coolhand]

Stan,

I know you have a big family, but you need to try to join us on some of our social activities. You'll not only enjoy the people, you can tell us all your desires to make your "monster" machine!

At Miata World II, I met a nice couple from Indiana. The wife was Russian and has only been here for 8 months. I enjoyed listening to her talk and I told her all about our very own "Russian" family in our club!

Would have been fun to have you up there, you would have been in heaven on that track. I was too chicken to get on it with my beloved EZ (my car), but wish I had now.

Get a sitter for the kids and you and your lovely wife join us soon!!!

[AutoExec]

George,

I'm really eager to see you all again asap. The problem is, I just opened my own business and last 2 months I work from 8AM till 9PM every day including weekends.

I really miss all you guys and all the fun... Hopefully my schedule will allow to join y'all soon.

[Coolhand]

What is your new business? I'll lead a run to it , hehehe

[AutoExec]

Nothing big... I opened a little salvage yard. Currently only have 11 cars there. Wanted something on the side and non-related to computers

This way I kill two rabbits with one shot - make extra money and get to know more about cars.