4.0 in buggy?

[Incommando]

Anybody have any experience/info about using a 4.0 I6 in a tube buggy? Are any of the physical dimensions a deal-breaker?

 

Opinions welcome

[mvusse]

I don't see how the physical dimensions of the engine could matter, as you'd build the frame to fit the engine; you don't just go and build a frame, then hope some engine will fit in it.

[Incommando]

I have inherited a mild-steel tube chassis. it is set up for a SBC with a set-back from the front axle line. I guess I was actually hoping for tips from anyone who had used a 4.0 in a tube chassis.

 

The height of the engine in particular is a concern. I would like to mount the whole drivetrain as high into the chassis as possible and make the bottom flat or near flat. Maybe i am worrying for nothing. I can get to the chassis to start taking measurements mid-week.

[Geonovast]

Isn't a major point of buggies to keep them light? I imagine a 4.0 weighs a bit much for the kind of power you would need.

[Incommando]

Most buggies should be light. Gearing is more important, IMHO, then actual engine output. I think 190hp/230# is pretty good if you keep the vehicle weight around 3,000#'s.

 

Besides, at about 500#'s dressed, that is not terribly heavy, is it? Sure it is about 75#'s more than a 4.3 chevy...but still...?

[mnkyboy]

If its set up for a SBC I would put another SBC in it or similiar sized small block.

[Dirteatr717]

If its set up for a SBC I would put another SBC in it or similiar sized small block.

:agree: why fix something that's not broke :dunno:

 

And we all want pics of the frame :)