1.7 FI to carbs to install in a Bradley GT body, 9/15/09 update w/picts need an opinion from the experts Options

[jays914]

See additional pictues posted 9/15/09

Everyone,

I would like to know how much of a problem it would be to take 1.7 914 FI engine and convert it to a carbs to put into a Bradley GT project car. The body kit is an original 1976 model that was never put together. The Bradley was purchased by my cousin and I have the spare engine. The engine (in a barn for the last 15 years) will be torn down for inspection and parts replaced as needed.

Thought this would be a good way to reuse the 1.7 since most of the other comments I have heard or read for this type of engine were less than favorable.

Should the engine get a big bore kit, cam, dist, low pressure fuel pump? If so, does anyone have the required parts for the conversion? How much?

Thanks for your input!

Jays914

[jays914]

Zach and Dave,

Thanks for the latest info!

As you guys know that $$$ is always a consideration when doing this kind of project. We are looking for the best compromise. Should we trick it out with a built-up Porsche engine/trans combo or just go with the stock VW parts for now???

My cousin has 2 pipe buggies and another VW pan plus a number of VW engines and transmissions. He also has a very low miles Kia 4 cylinder engine (wrecked car) and complete wiring harness. The main problem with this type of engine is no one makes a conversion kit that we can find. The current flywheel is for an automatiic transmission. The flywheel is close to the Porsche 914 in size and number of bolts to the crankshaft. I think we could have a flywheel machined to match the bolt pattern. We would have to fab an adaptor plate to mount the engine to the transmission. Then mounting a rad/fan and all the other junk...

BTW...VW pans are going to be welded together tonight by a professional welder, then the mounting of the body should come pretty soon, can't wait to see it as a roller.... (IMG:style_emoticons/default/bye1.gif)


Jay