My German Look VW project:
I have a '68 VW bug that I have been working on for several years now. My wife is getting really pissed because it isn't
finished yet!
I have a 94mm x 71mm 2.0L (1971cc) type 4 engine from a 914 Porsche
on the engine stand waiting to go in. It should make about 125hp
or so.
Engine Specs:
- Custom ground cam (secret specs until it's performance is proven)
- Ported heads with 42mm intake valves and 35mm exhaust valves (8mm
stems)
- Dual 40mm Dellorto carbs until I get it broken in and running
well, then I will fabricate an intake/plenum and install a MegaSquirt
EFI system.
- Custom header. This header is designed specifically for
this engine configuration: 1.5" primary pipes 42" long into a 2.25"
collector with a long extension to the muffler. Not easy to package
in the back of the bug but fun to fabricate. This header should make
power focused on the 3500-5000 rpm range and not drop off before
the 6200 rpm red line.
- 911 style cooling system/alternator
Every part on this engine has been modified and improved in some way. I have used
cryogenic treatment on many parts as well as extensive use of high tech
coatings to control heat and reduce friction.
Chassis Specs:
- 5 speed trans from a '69 Porsche 912.
- Brakes from an early 944 Porsche.
- Rear torsion bars from a 944 Porsche.
- 2.5" dropped front spindles.
- Rear suspension/trans brace.
- Full complement of VDO gages
I turned the shift knob from some aluminum stock. I made it long to cover
some damage to the chrome, the lower part of the lever will be covered
with a leather shift boot.
This is the engine installed. The rear apron will be removable
and have no exhaust cut outs. The stock distributor will be replaced by a
Mallory Unilite. Note the header
collector/elbow at the lower right of the picture, the pipe will cross to
the opposite side of the engine compartment.
Here are a couple of pictures of my 1.8L cylinder head ports. DIY
self porting is not that difficult, a flow bench is not necessary for good
results. If you are seeking the last HP for a race engine have your
heads professionally ported. If you are building a strong street engine
and are looking for some cheap HP--Do It Yourself!! These heads come
with 41mm intake and 34mm exhaust valves. I had the stock seats cut larger
to fit 42mm stainless intake valves and 35mm stainless exhaust valves with
8mm stems custom made by Manley.
The tough spot on the exhaust ports is a flat shelf that is behind the
valve guide, once it is removed and smoothed it is like a good 2.0L 914 port. The exhaust ports were port matched to the exhaust header stub pipes
after this picture was taken.
This project is about 2/3 complete, I was hoping to have it done
by the end of summer 2003, but.......
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