Jim..just noticed you were logged on and I got to thinking we hadn't heard anything from you lately on your new engine. Also I was curious what you ended up doing with your radiator.
Curious minds want, or need, to know.
Rich
Hi Rich,
I just finished up on the 57. It runs awesome and I couldn't be any more pleased. The Radiator, I chickened out. I had spent so much time on the engine that I just didn't want to do anymore. I just put the fan back on it like it was. I let it idle 30 minutes the other day and it went up to 180 degrees ( 160 thermostat) just like the old 390 I had.
The engine idles about as smooth as the old engine but there's a lot more exhaust coming out the pipes. The mufflers sound more like glass packs now with a very nice rumble when idling. I'm really pleased. The fenders don't shake at 650rpm idle either. It's smooth. But when you punch it, all hell breaks loose. It goes. I expect low 14's or even maybe break into the 13's. I'll know April 27th. I'm going to be drag racing it at Beaver Springs, Pa. They are holding a FE Race and Reunion. It's going to be a really big event for FE engine cars. There's going to be a lot of big names there. Survival Motorsports, Jay Brown and anyone that caters to FE Engines will be there.
This by far has been the best build (knock on wood) that I've done yet. I'm expecting around 16 mpg or better with the Tremec. We'll see. Just knowing I'm running more than just a paint job makes driving it now more of a blast.
Oh yes, if you run a diaphragm pressure plate for heaven's sake get rid of the spring on the clutch pedal inside the car. Makes adjusting the clutch so much easier and doesn't add much to the effort in pushing the clutch in either. Wish I'd known that last engine.
Anyway, that's how I've been. Sorry I chickened out of the clutch fan. Maybe later.
Awesome Jim...Nothing better than doing something (as opposed to paying for something)that puts a smile on your face when your done. I wish I had your know-how.
Rich
Quote from: RICH MUISE on 2013-04-08 08:18
Awesome Jim...Nothing better than doing something (as opposed to paying for something)that puts a smile on your face when your done. I wish I had your know-how.
Rich
Rich,
I'm serious as a heart attack. The key to having know how is being able to recognize how stupid you are. It seems anytime I do anything anymore, I run it past someone I feel knows more than myself. You can't go wrong that way, and, your results are a whole lot better in the long run. I love these forums on cars and engines. This forum here has been a Godsend to plenty of people. The FE Power Forum is probably the best on FE Engines. When they speak, I stand up and pay attention.
Have you got your car done yet? The last time I looked you had the interior almost done and it was on it's way to completion. Jim
LOL...I agree. I think a person's ability to get things done right is often how clever they are working around their ignorance.
My car..not even close. I'm just to the point where I'm starting to set up the drivetrain, but it's about to go on hold for a while. I'm rebuilding this 85 year old house we live in, and the weather is finally cooperating, so I'm starting side 2 this week..windows, rebuilding framing, insulation, siding, etc. Hopefully I can get at least one side of the house done before it gets too hot.
I doubt Jay will be at the event as his stuff is blown up or being recammed.Sure would be a good event to see though.