74 Roller rebuild and Subaru conversion, 1974 rebuild and Subaru conversion project Options

[mgarrison]

I moved the 914 back around under the canopy but faced it nose in so I can start working on a transmission mount. The clothesline wire is there to keep things from tipping forward and the transmission hitting the underside of the chassis.


My motor & transmission came with the Subaru mounts so I am trying to utilize them. I believe this is what Coldwater914 is doing more recently. I leveled the engine & transmission by measuring various points of the lower oil pan flange. I'm holding things level with the scissor jack from the crashed Miata, but also took this pic for reference.

[mgarrison]

In my "spare time" (IMG:style_emoticons/default/blink.gif) I've been trying to complete the tack trunk for our daughter. Getting closer.


Still waiting on the vinyl panels with the barn logo for the sides to arrive. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/popcorn[1].gif)

[slowrodent]

Car looks really great Mike... Once again, excellent detail work. Big steps (drivetrain) being taken now... You'll be flying down Riggs Rd in no time (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

[mgarrison]

Car looks really great Mike... Once again, excellent detail work. Big steps (drivetrain) being taken now... You'll be flying down Riggs Rd in no time (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

Thanks Kevin! Most days it seems like I may be dead before the 914 is running... (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wacko.gif)

[mgarrison]

I managed to get the transmission mount knocked out this afternoon. The angles tripped me up at first, but after resorting to the good ole CAD method, I got them figured out! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/welder.gif)




I need to pick up some more satin black spray paint before I can paint it. I just can't wait to pull it out again to paint it! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/headbang.gif)

Need to do something about how long the transmission mount studs are...just waiting for trouble hanging down that low. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wacko.gif)

[mgp4591]

I was going to put a shallow nut on each trans stud then cut the remainder off on mine. Has anyone had any luck pulling those studs and running bolts up from the bottom?

[mgarrison]

I pulled the mount back off, wire brushed and painted it. Got it reinstalled and cut the studs off so they don't stick down so far.

[mgarrison]

I have not been able to do much on the 914, just too many other things going on! I did manage to complete the tack trunk for our daughter after waiting 3 months(!) for the vinyl panels for the sides and trim to arrive - crazy (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wacko.gif)

Here's the final result. Far from perfect, but came out pretty darn good in the end. At least looks good from 3-6 feet away - I have a feeling the 914 is gonna be the same! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/lol-2.gif)

[mgarrison]

I did receive my Outfront Motorsports headers. I briefly tried to test fit them and as is typical they need to occupy the exact same space as the crossbar for the engine cradle. You know the part that holds the motor mounts for the engine! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/headbang.gif)

Now I need to pull the engine and trans out and start to ponder what solution might be the best option. Because the support angles forward it gives me much less room than I need (cradle is a knock-off of the early Coldwater cradle).

I tried emailing Ian at Coldwater again to see if he has any of his new revision of the cradle that accommodates the Outfront headers, but no response now to several emails...wondering if Ian has stopped his side hustle for good...?

I'll plan on posting some pics of my current challenge once I have the engine and trans back out.

One step forward, two steps back. I was never any good at that "two-step" dancing thing! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/popcorn[1].gif)

[mgp4591]

I did receive my Outfront Motorsports headers. I briefly tried to test fit them and as is typical they need to occupy the exact same space as the crossbar for the engine cradle. You know the part that holds the motor mounts for the engine! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/headbang.gif)

Now I need to pull the engine and trans out and start to ponder what solution might be the best option. Because the support angles forward it gives me much less room than I need (cradle is a knock-off of the early Coldwater cradle).

I tried emailing Ian at Coldwater again to see if he has any of his new revision of the cradle that accommodates the Outfront headers, but no response now to several emails...wondering if Ian has stopped his side hustle for good...?

I'll plan on posting some pics of my current challenge once I have the engine and trans back out.

One step forward, two steps back. I was never any good at that "two-step" dancing thing! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/popcorn[1].gif)

Even though I have the EG33, I had to cut my Outfront Motorsports headers not far from the cojoined 3 pipes and I used pre bent pipes to finish off my pipe routes.
I'm not familiar with the bushings you use on the mounting points of the cradle...what is the purpose of those? I mounted my cradle directly to the front and rear mounting points, thinking that it strengthens the rear of the car and the stock Subaru mounts isolate the vibrations of the engine. It seems that they may not be needed and could give you more ground clearance as well.

[Shivers]

I have not been able to do much on the 914, just too many other things going on! I did manage to complete the tack trunk for our daughter after waiting 3 months(!) for the vinyl panels for the sides and trim to arrive - crazy (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wacko.gif)

Here's the final result. Far from perfect, but came out pretty darn good in the end. At least looks good from 3-6 feet away - I have a feeling the 914 is gonna be the same! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/lol-2.gif)

That came out great. Good job Dad

[mgarrison]

I did receive my Outfront Motorsports headers. I briefly tried to test fit them and as is typical they need to occupy the exact same space as the crossbar for the engine cradle. You know the part that holds the motor mounts for the engine! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/headbang.gif)

Now I need to pull the engine and trans out and start to ponder what solution might be the best option. Because the support angles forward it gives me much less room than I need (cradle is a knock-off of the early Coldwater cradle).

I tried emailing Ian at Coldwater again to see if he has any of his new revision of the cradle that accommodates the Outfront headers, but no response now to several emails...wondering if Ian has stopped his side hustle for good...?

I'll plan on posting some pics of my current challenge once I have the engine and trans back out.

One step forward, two steps back. I was never any good at that "two-step" dancing thing! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/popcorn[1].gif)

Even though I have the EG33, I had to cut my Outfront Motorsports headers not far from the cojoined 3 pipes and I used pre bent pipes to finish off my pipe routes.
I'm not familiar with the bushings you use on the mounting points of the cradle...what is the purpose of those? I mounted my cradle directly to the front and rear mounting points, thinking that it strengthens the rear of the car and the stock Subaru mounts isolate the vibrations of the engine. It seems that they may not be needed and could give you more ground clearance as well.

Not 100% sure, honestly. I've seen a bit of everything done by various folks here. Some use stock rubber mounts. Some hard mount. Some use Subaru transmission mount and some hard mount the transmission to the cradle. Not sure there's any real consensus on the best method. I was trying to land in the middle somewhere. Ground clearance seems ok from what I see...unless I have to run the headers UNDER the cradle. That would make things too tight I think and seems like a bad idea.

I need to take some more measurements, etc. Really wondering if there's room for ANY kind of header given where the cross support lands right under the exhaust heads. Thought about exchanging the Outfront headers I have for the ones that go forward towards the front and then using a U pipe to bring them back to the rear. Not sure what will fit (IMG:style_emoticons/default/popcorn[1].gif)

[mgarrison]

I have not been able to do much on the 914, just too many other things going on! I did manage to complete the tack trunk for our daughter after waiting 3 months(!) for the vinyl panels for the sides and trim to arrive - crazy (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wacko.gif)

Here's the final result. Far from perfect, but came out pretty darn good in the end. At least looks good from 3-6 feet away - I have a feeling the 914 is gonna be the same! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/lol-2.gif)

That came out great. Good job Dad

Thanks! She seems happy with it so it's a win... (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smilie_pokal.gif)

[76-914]

I have not been able to do much on the 914, just too many other things going on! I did manage to complete the tack trunk for our daughter after waiting 3 months(!) for the vinyl panels for the sides and trim to arrive - crazy (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wacko.gif)

Here's the final result. Far from perfect, but came out pretty darn good in the end. At least looks good from 3-6 feet away - I have a feeling the 914 is gonna be the same! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/lol-2.gif)

Excellent work and beautiful as well. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/beerchug.gif)

[mgarrison]

Ya know, if I could just focus on the 914 I might actually make some progress! 2025 was a challenging year, for sure; lost Clint the horse we leased for 3 years, mother in law had to have brain surgery which meant multiple trips to Colorado, renting a trailer to bring back a bunch of tools, etc., lost our dog (IMG:style_emoticons/default/sad.gif) - hoping for a smoother, quieter, calmer 2026! Please...

I haven't touched the 914 in quite some time, but I did get her a shelter and a cover to try and not lose any forward progress I've made.


I also wrapped up the engine & transmission to keep them out of the elements. My next focus is modifying the headers to clear the cradle.


I ordered several U bends to use to modify the headers, but as usual I got pulled into other projects...My wife brought home some cuttings from Christmas tree trunks that they give to the kids as "ornaments" when the family buys a tree. I decided to enhance that idea with some wood burning. Came out pretty cool - great personal thing for our daughter.


Then my wife decided I really needed to up my game and she came home with a wreath made from tree trunk cuttings and the idea that I could burn all the Trainer's horses on it...go figure!


I've set a goal to have the 914 at least running by the time I turn 60! I've got about 18 months, so I need to get cracking! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smash.gif)

[mgarrison]

My wife got to take Armani for a short ride for her birthday. After a couple of minutes he just ignored where she was telling him to go and came over to me and did this...


We all cracked up and decided he was saying "Dad, get this crazy lady off my back!" (IMG:style_emoticons/default/lol-2.gif)

[slowrodent]

Sorry 2025 was a challenging year for you Mike. It's always good to put those behind you. Here's to a much better 2026 (IMG:style_emoticons/default/beer3.gif) ... The 914 will wait for you.

[76-914]

I did receive my Outfront Motorsports headers. I briefly tried to test fit them and as is typical they need to occupy the exact same space as the crossbar for the engine cradle. You know the part that holds the motor mounts for the engine! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/headbang.gif)

Now I need to pull the engine and trans out and start to ponder what solution might be the best option. Because the support angles forward it gives me much less room than I need (cradle is a knock-off of the early Coldwater cradle).

I tried emailing Ian at Coldwater again to see if he has any of his new revision of the cradle that accommodates the Outfront headers, but no response now to several emails...wondering if Ian has stopped his side hustle for good...?

I'll plan on posting some pics of my current challenge once I have the engine and trans back out.

One step forward, two steps back. I was never any good at that "two-step" dancing thing! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/popcorn[1].gif)

Even though I have the EG33, I had to cut my Outfront Motorsports headers not far from the cojoined 3 pipes and I used pre bent pipes to finish off my pipe routes.
I'm not familiar with the bushings you use on the mounting points of the cradle...what is the purpose of those? I mounted my cradle directly to the front and rear mounting points, thinking that it strengthens the rear of the car and the stock Subaru mounts isolate the vibrations of the engine. It seems that they may not be needed and could give you more ground clearance as well.

Not 100% sure, honestly. I've seen a bit of everything done by various folks here. Some use stock rubber mounts. Some hard mount. Some use Subaru transmission mount and some hard mount the transmission to the cradle. Not sure there's any real consensus on the best method. I was trying to land in the middle somewhere. Ground clearance seems ok from what I see...unless I have to run the headers UNDER the cradle. That would make things too tight I think and seems like a bad idea.

I need to take some more measurements, etc. Really wondering if there's room for ANY kind of header given where the cross support lands right under the exhaust heads. Thought about exchanging the Outfront headers I have for the ones that go forward towards the front and then using a U pipe to bring them back to the rear. Not sure what will fit (IMG:style_emoticons/default/popcorn[1].gif)

Mike, do as Michael suggests. Hard mount the cradle to the body and use the factory mounts. It strengthens the body. Re: transmission studs. As long as they terminate ~5.5" above ground your good. The factory plastic air flaps are ~5.5" above ground (on my 914) so I figured anything at or above 5.5" is as safe as the floor pan in the cabin. I also made it a point to have the oil pan clear that dimension also. IIRC, someone just modified an OutFront header to clear but I forget the process. It might have been posted on our FB Group. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/beerchug.gif)

[mgarrison]

I did receive my Outfront Motorsports headers. I briefly tried to test fit them and as is typical they need to occupy the exact same space as the crossbar for the engine cradle. You know the part that holds the motor mounts for the engine! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/headbang.gif)

Now I need to pull the engine and trans out and start to ponder what solution might be the best option. Because the support angles forward it gives me much less room than I need (cradle is a knock-off of the early Coldwater cradle).

I tried emailing Ian at Coldwater again to see if he has any of his new revision of the cradle that accommodates the Outfront headers, but no response now to several emails...wondering if Ian has stopped his side hustle for good...?

I'll plan on posting some pics of my current challenge once I have the engine and trans back out.

One step forward, two steps back. I was never any good at that "two-step" dancing thing! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/popcorn[1].gif)

Even though I have the EG33, I had to cut my Outfront Motorsports headers not far from the cojoined 3 pipes and I used pre bent pipes to finish off my pipe routes.
I'm not familiar with the bushings you use on the mounting points of the cradle...what is the purpose of those? I mounted my cradle directly to the front and rear mounting points, thinking that it strengthens the rear of the car and the stock Subaru mounts isolate the vibrations of the engine. It seems that they may not be needed and could give you more ground clearance as well.

Not 100% sure, honestly. I've seen a bit of everything done by various folks here. Some use stock rubber mounts. Some hard mount. Some use Subaru transmission mount and some hard mount the transmission to the cradle. Not sure there's any real consensus on the best method. I was trying to land in the middle somewhere. Ground clearance seems ok from what I see...unless I have to run the headers UNDER the cradle. That would make things too tight I think and seems like a bad idea.

I need to take some more measurements, etc. Really wondering if there's room for ANY kind of header given where the cross support lands right under the exhaust heads. Thought about exchanging the Outfront headers I have for the ones that go forward towards the front and then using a U pipe to bring them back to the rear. Not sure what will fit (IMG:style_emoticons/default/popcorn[1].gif)

Mike, do as Michael suggests. Hard mount the cradle to the body and use the factory mounts. It strengthens the body. Re: transmission studs. As long as they terminate ~5.5" above ground your good. The factory plastic air flaps are ~5.5" above ground (on my 914) so I figured anything at or above 5.5" is as safe as the floor pan in the cabin. I also made it a point to have the oil pan clear that dimension also. IIRC, someone just modified an OutFront header to clear but I forget the process. It might have been posted on our FB Group. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/beerchug.gif)

Kent(I hope it's Kent!), appreciate the input/feedback. Given how small the tabs are on the cradle, would I just eliminate the extra bushings I have between the cradle and the mounting plates I fabricated? I already have the Subaru engine & transmission mounts between those pieces and the cradle...Just want to make sure I'm following your suggestion correctly!

The "extra" bushings I'm referring to are circled in blue in this pic:

[76-914]

I did receive my Outfront Motorsports headers. I briefly tried to test fit them and as is typical they need to occupy the exact same space as the crossbar for the engine cradle. You know the part that holds the motor mounts for the engine! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/headbang.gif)

Now I need to pull the engine and trans out and start to ponder what solution might be the best option. Because the support angles forward it gives me much less room than I need (cradle is a knock-off of the early Coldwater cradle).

I tried emailing Ian at Coldwater again to see if he has any of his new revision of the cradle that accommodates the Outfront headers, but no response now to several emails...wondering if Ian has stopped his side hustle for good...?

I'll plan on posting some pics of my current challenge once I have the engine and trans back out.

One step forward, two steps back. I was never any good at that "two-step" dancing thing! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/popcorn[1].gif)

Even though I have the EG33, I had to cut my Outfront Motorsports headers not far from the cojoined 3 pipes and I used pre bent pipes to finish off my pipe routes.
I'm not familiar with the bushings you use on the mounting points of the cradle...what is the purpose of those? I mounted my cradle directly to the front and rear mounting points, thinking that it strengthens the rear of the car and the stock Subaru mounts isolate the vibrations of the engine. It seems that they may not be needed and could give you more ground clearance as well.

Not 100% sure, honestly. I've seen a bit of everything done by various folks here. Some use stock rubber mounts. Some hard mount. Some use Subaru transmission mount and some hard mount the transmission to the cradle. Not sure there's any real consensus on the best method. I was trying to land in the middle somewhere. Ground clearance seems ok from what I see...unless I have to run the headers UNDER the cradle. That would make things too tight I think and seems like a bad idea.

I need to take some more measurements, etc. Really wondering if there's room for ANY kind of header given where the cross support lands right under the exhaust heads. Thought about exchanging the Outfront headers I have for the ones that go forward towards the front and then using a U pipe to bring them back to the rear. Not sure what will fit (IMG:style_emoticons/default/popcorn[1].gif)

Mike, do as Michael suggests. Hard mount the cradle to the body and use the factory mounts. It strengthens the body. Re: transmission studs. As long as they terminate ~5.5" above ground your good. The factory plastic air flaps are ~5.5" above ground (on my 914) so I figured anything at or above 5.5" is as safe as the floor pan in the cabin. I also made it a point to have the oil pan clear that dimension also. IIRC, someone just modified an OutFront header to clear but I forget the process. It might have been posted on our FB Group. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/beerchug.gif)

Kent(I hope it's Kent!), appreciate the input/feedback. Given how small the tabs are on the cradle, would I just eliminate the extra bushings I have between the cradle and the mounting plates I fabricated? I already have the Subaru engine & transmission mounts between those pieces and the cradle...Just want to make sure I'm following your suggestion correctly!

The "extra" bushings I'm referring to are circled in blue in this pic:

Mike, you can ditch those circled. Keep the bottom OEM mount that you trimmed the Bolts on (nice job BTW). This OEM trans mount and the 2 OEM engine mounts are the only ones needed and provides you with the bracing that Michael alluded to. Stay after it. Your build is amazing. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/beerchug.gif)
EDIT: Mike, if your using the rear stabilizer bar be sure there is enough clearance between the trans & trunk pan. This would take precedent over what I mentioned above. If needed you may need to make & insert a steel extension sleeve in place of that mount (circled in blue) that would give you the vertical clearance for the rear stabilizer bar.