quote:Originally posted by Bosswrench:
Big-block conversions move the ZF back FOUR full inches with no known halfshaft problems. Biggest problem for most engines is the oil pan notch vs the under-engine crossmember. But some LS engines are dry-sump with shallow pans and can mount high enough that clearance is not an issue.
As far as the 'Chevy-in-a-Ford' thing, its well known that GM "borrowed" designs from a number of sources in building the LS series engines, including the hot-rodders. Some hard parts adapt almost directly from LS to thirty-years-older 351-Cs! Just look at them as modernized Clevelands, or what Ford might have done had they not thrown the Cleveland design in the trash in '74 & kept the Windsor truck engines.
I will say this, that is one heck of a compact engine package and really fits the chassis well.
There are 1000hp axle shafts available now, so that shouldn't be a problem.
Being the paranoid that I am I would immediately be concerned about the supercharger with the ZF since all published information and quotes from Butfoy state that it is a hard 550ft-lb torque limit.
Actually Quella proved with doing at least three 427 Ford installs into the Pantera that isn't necessarily a problem though.
There's no question the ZF held and is holding up fine with those installs.
The only thing aesthetically that bothers me here now is the coil packs sitting on the valve covers.
I acknowledge that I'm probably in the minority on that anyway as many will say form follows function and therefore they are beautiful?
There's no question that the fabricated parts like the engine and trans mounts are coming out beautifully so I can compensate by lusting for them.
I think ultimately what will set the finished install off is the headers? Those and the supercharger all tucked in like that are just going to be like a Tiffany diamond necklace hanging over the cleavage of a set of 36DD's.
I try not to stare in situations like that but most understand that it is a hopeless situation and that I am only being a moth attracted uncontrollably to the flame?
So far so good. I'm already working on my safety harness to keep me from falling into the crevice between those babies on this car.
It's seems inevitable though that you'll find me with my head stuck in there between...the header tubes! Just checking for fit you understand. Purely scientifically.
Beautiful Chris. Can't wait to see it finished.