Has anyone installed a small block Chevy or other engine into a '79 FB? And how did you compensate for the shift in the weight change (back to front)?

 

Well it's pretty simple: they don't.
Some guy argued with me (I hate piston engine swaps to RX-7's, sorry) that "it didn't matter much, cause you could make up the extra wheight in front by installing a big stereo" or something. But that's BS.
A V8 is both a lot heavier aswell as a lot bigger then that tiny 12A.
If you really want to install one, you'll have to live with the fact that the low-down power comes with a price.

 

There isnt such a thing as a 79 FB. Before you go and do that engine swap, which defeats alot of design purpose, learn alot more then what you know about you car.

 

I think that if you got enough money to convert to a 600hp small block you could built a rotor and do it right. But if you're determined to take a 7 and make it like EVERYTHING ELSE out there kits are out there

 

Heres the most insightful post in this thread for you.
Youll not find much help here these guys are pure rotary, and thats cool it takes all kinds.
If your into the customs and want to do the conversion, there is a site for you, its.
http://www.torquecentral.com/
Youll find all of the info you need for your swap. good luck with whatever you decide,
There, was that so hard to give him the info he was looking for?
Doc

 

Another link in case you still want to perform this abomination...moan, groan....

V8RX7 site

EDIT: Thank you Mario, that was helpful I'll even leave in the smartass remarks.

 

As for weight, there are many ways to compensate. I fabricated my own mount system. I mounted my Ford 302 as low as possible, aprox. 1/8" off the cross member, and as far back as I could. I clearances the firewall with a hammer to acomplish this. I can honeslty say my car handles great with the V8. I won't lie, the car feels heavier, but not overly heavy. The turn in is actually better with the increased weight, and the balance feels perfect. The car still behaves exaclty like it used to with the rotory motor in it.

Ways to compensate are pretty simple, try to limit the nose weight, and make adjustments accordingly. These include fiberglass hoods, battery relocation kits, aluminum heads, non-pop up lights, etc. Anything you can do to take some weight off the nose. It's actually possible to make the V8 swap tail biased, although it's a lot of work and more expensive than it's worth. In reality, even most "super cars" aren't 50/50 weight balanced, so it's pretty easy to get the car set up close enough, then just run some stiffer front springs.



.

 

mr 85gsl 302....i think u should have a talk with Mr Hitman....www.hitman.hm.....mite be interesting for u to speak to him....

 

I like rotaries and pistons.

The LS1 is an all aluminum engine.
And the smaller 302 is available with an aluminum block (and heads & intake) as well. The weight can be reduced to near original levels, without even ripping out the AC, sound deadening, etc.

I don't mind V8 engine swaps. It leaves more rotary engines for everyone else.

And yes, the V8s make more power, MORE TORQUE, and make it easier. As far as aftermarket, you can do anything with Ford or Chevy SB engines. Hi RPM or low-end torque. Plus, they get the same if not better mileage!

Here's a good rotary -> V8 swap site:
http://members.tripod.com/~grannys/index.html

I respect the rotary for what it is tho.

And you cannot ignore the uniqueness of a rotary "Lightning in a world of thunder". Reminds me of Apple Computer.

By the way, I owned a totally stock '85 GSL-SE and a '95 Mustang Cobra and the RX-7 was by far the funnest car I've ever drove.

 

Ok I wont say a thing...Hahaha! I never thought about it...I just do it. My 5.0 was less than a new 12a with 477hp and 437T I have a parts list if you want the same HP #s Email me

 

Photo

 

100kg heavier? Nope.

Brake balance? Ever lowered a car? Good job screwing up the brake balance. Ever changed tire size on a car? Good job screwing up the brake balance. See where I'm going here?

The real reason I responded to your post was your last comment - the RB header is a LOT heavier than a pair of 5.0 "shorty" headers. I have both, and I know this. Most "relic" V8's don't require the headers be made out of 2 gauge super-stainless in order to keep from melting, so they can be much lighter weight and still perform their duties flawlessly.

 

So will who wants my 13B motor? I live next to Portland Or, And I will give it to you.

 

Does the 13B run?

And also, the original post regarded a 79 FB, correct me if I'm wrong, but isn't a 79 an SA.

Just what I noticed.

Go on with the V8 talk.

 

I didn't buy my car for Wankels wonderfull engine, i bought it for Mazda's great chassis. I'll do with it what ever I please, and tell any one that asks how to do it to their car too. I've already converted 2 local people to V8's. Once you see a nicely done one in person, and get to drive it, 90% if you will change your tune.

 

Hey 85 GSL 302, I like the brown paint (same as mine) and as long as you don't put any decals on there no one will know it has a v8. I think you are right, we rotorheads should be more tolerant of people who do strange things to their 7s. Thanks for the minority report and putting up with our rotorhead ribbing.

Ray

 

okay bananna man!


lets see more v8 pictures.....

 

I don't like to see V8s in RX-7s, but I'm not about to go bashing people who do it. It's upsetting, but life moves on. haha

I say all you V8 guys should donate your engines to poor guys like me! So we can learn the wonderful workings of the rotary. ;D

 

If i ever get a v8 rx7, i would put a big rotor sign on the back window just to trick people into thinking that it is slower that it really is whohahahahah........

I bought my rx7's because of the rotors and because i wanted to go fast and it took me 4 years to realize that the $$ i put into them and all the effort is not worth the HP you get out of them.

Some day when i have a lot of money and time on my hands i wouldn't mind to mess around rotors again but i don't have either one of those right now so i'm really considering 5.0LX. Intake, exhaust, traction bars and you are hitting easy 13's on a daily driver!

 

http://people.clemson.edu/~summerr/V8/main.htm









How's that for some pictures.

Please tell me where I flame others? I may be sarcastic and steriotypical, but lets face it, steriotypes exist for a reason.

 

Nice pics! So thats how you get a Holley to sit correctly in a 1st gen! Ahhh I see now. Lotta work to get there though. Nice job. So when are you gonna open track it?

 

http://people.clemson.edu/~summerr/V8/main.htm









"How's that for some pictures."

Absolutely nice!

Ray

 

Ok, heres the deal. Like it or not I'm gonna allow this to stay, at least for now. I expect you guys to behave, that goes for both sides. If you dont like it, then bypass this thread instead of just mouthing off. If you have something to say besides veiled or open insults, please post whats on your mind. The guy did put alot of hard work into this and is proud enough (rightfully so) to share with us. Keep an open mind please. As eccentric a bunch as we are (haha, get it?), I think thats a piece of cake for you guys.

 

Bump, lets see how this goes.

 

I have to say, that 302 install looks really nice. Like it or hate it, 85 GSL 302 did a clean install from the looks of it.

I'm curious though, what autocross class did the engine swap put you in? Did you get bumped to Modified with all the kit cars, or are the classings different in the States?