Morgan 4/4 project diary :: update 1 :: 1st August 2007

Calculations and measurements

Having the whole of the Vauxhall parts bin to choose from enables us to select an ideal engine.  Careful consideration of power output, gearbox compatability, physical dimensions, weight and indeed costs took quite some time. We narrowed our search down to two possible contenders.

Gearbox

Of the six thousand cowled radiator 4/4’s built up to 1993 only a handful had five speed gearboxes, So our conversion will include a gearbox to compliment the engine, again issues of compatability and physical dimensions were looked at. Having selected some light weight compact units, the next step was to decide on the internal gear set-up. Several off the shelf versions of each gearbox are available with different gear ratios. More Maths!!

It all looks good on paper, but does it really fit.  It just happened that we recently changed the chassis and bulkhead on a 1976 4’4 and the scrap man had not yet collected the old unit. So a quick trial fit confirmed our earlier calculations were correct.

Fired with enthusiasm and the knowledge that our project was going to fit perfectly we needed a mule.  A typical CVH engined 4/4, 2 seater with 46,000 miles on the clock was purchased.

Eagerly we dismantled the car and inspected our purchase; it turned out to be generally sound, just a few perished rubber items and a few minor mechanical issues.

The real test, lowering an engine and gearbox into the engine bay of our mule. Even better than expected, it looks like it was made for this application, the gearbox will fit within the existing tunnel and the engine sits well back in the car which will improve the handling.

Off the shelf engine mounting brackets are not available for this application as the chosen engine normally sits in front wheel drive Astra and Vectra.  So more measurements, design and a little fabrication to create some bespoke brackets for the Morgan.

So now we have an engine and gearbox mounted in the car!!!