Subaru Swap Downfalls?, Common shortcuts, issues with the swap Options

[2mAn]

Hey Everyone

Im starting to give up hope that I can find a -6 swap in my price range. I'm starting to look at other options and as much as I hate to admit it, the Subaru swaps are very tempting.

I wonder though, what are some common pitfalls?

- adapting the subaru -> 901 issues? Can the 901 handle 250+ bhp
- cooling issues as a result of plumbing a radiator, ie air trapped in the system?
- axles? can they handle 250+bhp?
- wiring issues?

Anything else?

Thanks
-Simon

[76-914]

Thats like adding a merlin engine and a radiator

To a chance vought corsair ( naval aviators dont like radiators)

Or p-47 thunderbolt

Dont go against design philosophy.

Well, the Merlin (water cooled) was certainly a HUGE improvement for the P-51. Before the P-51's conversion it was, at best, a mediocre performing pursuit craft. And don't try to share that mind set with King Air (Beech Craft) owners. Most of the production line piston engined planes have been converted to Turbo props. I've also seen a few Piper Malibu's that were converted. My preference for the Subaru conversion comes from personal experience. I own a bone stock type 4 and it just sits in the garage where it is started twice a month. I have AAA but choose to drive the Subi conversion 914 as it is more reliable and I don't care much for Wrecker Rides. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/av-943.gif)

Im guessing you are looking at the flood damaged one mentioned in another thread here over in Puyallup? Lots of resources here. I like suby power. The 901 can handle a lot of HP, its all about low end tq, gearing, and how you drive it. The suby tranz will be far superior in this application, though.

Yup, that’s the one. I was going to bid on one they recently had in my backyard. It was a-6 conversion that was a theft recovery. I was in it until about $20k and it sold for $22k. It looked like a steal. The timing wasn’t right for me as the auction ended when I was out of town.

Knowing this is likely a flood damaged car and the distance I’m probably in for more than I can handle... looks like the search will continue.

That being said, I’ll still watch it and want to continue to gather more info about the swaps because that might end up being the plan for my eventual 914.

Is there a “go-to” radiator that works best with installing up front?

Yes. the present and general consensus is the Celica "Racing Style" radiator. It comes with fans for <$175.00.