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MG MGB GT V8 Factory Originals Technical - Looking into engine conversion on my B

Hello All,
I'm thinking of converting my '72 B to a V6. I thought of the V6 because I hear there are overheating issues with the V8. That may not be true, I'll really don't know.

Where can I find an overview of what's involved? I do plan on doing the conversion myself.

Thanks in advance, Dave
David Steverson

I used classicconversionseng.com for my conversion. The kit is simple. The directions are clear. You can call Bill Guzman with questions if you need.

Garret
garret

David,


There are things to do with the BOP/R V8 to get it to quit overheating and I expect Lots of answers on this board regarding that, but the V6 gives much less issues in this regard. I have done quite a few conversions over the last several years and in the older series MGBs such as yours, I take extra precaution with the cars and convert some of them to the 1977-1980 MGB radiators. When our e-store goes back on line, I will have all the 'conversion' parts there for the radiator as well as most other V6 conversion components. There are a number of people running the stock radiator in the earlier cars such as yours and doing fine, but if your radiator is starting to look like it needs replacement or you need to move the radiator for the intake/fuel injection manifold, then the late model radiator system is the way to go due to its extra capacity and longer design allowing more air flow and cooling.

Are you planning the GM 60 degree V6?


-BMC.
BMC Brian McCullough

David, you've really opened up a can now! Chrome bumper cars are harder to convert, but I would argue present the most reward when completed. Overheating is but one of the many issues to consider when choosing the engine you'll be showing all your friends and listening to while motoring along. A lot will depend on your talents as a welder, sheetmetal worker, electrician, interior trimmer, etc. In short; are you up for (or can you finance) the work involved. I myself never really considered anything but the Buick V8, and although it has been on the road but briefly over the last few months, I'm very satisfied with the outcome. I can't stop working on improvements long enough to take it down for the safety check and licensing. I hope you do decide to convert to a more powerful option, the car will become what it should have become, before Ralph Nader and Jimmy Carter became interested in sports cars. I vote V8 BOP/R or Ford!!
C. Jones

David,

Too things also to look at:

www.britishv8.org

This website is a valuble tool when considering any conversion, whether it's a V6, V8, Turbo 4 cylinder or even a V12......etc.

Another great resource is Roger Williams book - How to give your MGB V8 Power.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1904788939/ref=sr_11_1/002-8191208-6004845?ie=UTF8

Good luck

Pete
www.mantellmotorsport.com

Pete Mantell

or you could just buy roger williams roadster, as i believe it is still for sale, and sell your car off.
james madson

"or you could just buy roger williams roadster, as I believe it is still for sale, and sell your car off."

It has been sold.
Dan Masters

Rover V8 and trans. It just feels right! :)

Kelly
Kelly Combes

Oops, I did not mean to open a can of anything! :)

It's just that I was recently at an MG show and after viewing those converted cars, and being a child of the 60's and well you know...

So anyway, the info I've received so far has been most helpful, and yes Brian, I am thinking of the GM 60 degree V6. I would be interested in knowing when your e-store reopens.

Regards, David
David Steverson

I got my kit from bill guzman www.classicconversionseng.com

As garret, kit is simple and easy to install.
David

David S,

Its open as of late last night, but if you go in, make sure to wear a hard hat. Lots of construction going on. The store words have yet to be switched out on the main store page from the basic starter program but working on it.
-Burning the candles at both ends to get this back up.

I have been working on details, the policies and other sections but have input a few items back into the store. I plan to continue tonight and hopefully have All the product wording back into the store by Saturday. Pictures will be returning after our products are all reinstalled, but it may take a few weeks to get all the pictures back up too.

-BMC.


BMC Brian McCullough

dan, it sold than? to a uk buyer? did he get the 10k gbp asking price do you know? just wondering, jim
james madson

Jim,

It is sold, and to a UK buyer, I think. I don't know what he got for it.
Dan Masters

Belated Happy Birthday, Dan Masters!
rick ingram

David
V8- Torque, power, sound.

It also has market legitimacy (hence good resale value), because the factory made them.

There are no overheating problems with the V8, so long as you use the RV8 style headers. When Rover were re-introducing the MG name to the market , and the updated MGB in the '90's they solved any overheating problems for good, by exiting the exhaust through the inner wheel guards into the wheel arches, a low pressure Zone when the car is in motion.
These style of headers get you an addittional 10-12 BHP, ensure the engine compartment is cool and also keep themselves away from the starter motor and ensure its reliability.
I also believe that with a little care locating the engine, that you need not do anything about the steering. You should be able to locate the steering UV in between two of the pipes. If you use the "block hugger" style headers you do need to buy/use the later "rubber bumper" steering gear because of interference problems.
By using the RV8 style headers you also need not be concerned with reforming the inner guards as you must with "block hugger" headers.
If you bolt your engine mounts down on the front crossmember, rather than the body, you sidestep all those welding issues. Also you get more bonnet clearance.
If you use the toyota Supra gear box you need not alter the transmission tunnel.
RV8 headers and a toyota gear box really simply the entire process.

Peter

Overview

http://www.mgcars.org.uk/v8_conversions/rogv8.html
Peter

Peter,

Instead of picking apart the entire argument for the V8 resale being higher, I leave this to eBay. You will spend far more on any car then you can ever sell it for. If your interested in retail, then purchase wholesale- in other words, purchase something someone else is done with for one reason or another. Also, if its not a factory car, then its not for real anyways.

-BMC.
BMC Brian McCullough

Why do V6 converters always get so wound up and stressed about whether someone should build V8 or V6?
There is only one answer, convert to a V8 !
Are they trying to make up for 2 missing cylinders?
V8 power is the only way to go.
If you do a V6 conversion, then you will always regret not adding 2 more cylinders and getting that awesome V8 sound.......

W Kerr
Wayne Kerr

Wayne, nice troll, however, if I want true V8 sound I jump in my Vette and turn the key and I have 400 hp at my fingertips.

I decided to go for a a GM V6 for weight factors and ease of installation, besides its cheaper to tune because I have two fewer plugs to buy.

Also, there is alot of help available from Bryan or a host of other V6 converters. A kit is available to install the GM V6 where there is none to my knowledge for a V8.



CW Strong

C'mon, guys, let's not go there.
Dan Masters

Mr. Wayne Kerr, In all fairness to all the forum readers and at the risk of stirring the flaming pot, would you please refer to a real sample of such reactions?

You wrote, "Why do V6 converters always get so wound up and stressed about whether someone should a build V8 or V6?"

Would you care to defend that statement sir? It appears to me and maybe others, that you may be the "wound up and stressed" person by your reaction.

The various V8's are in their own right are a substantial and satisfying conversion for those who like a V8. I share their enthusiasm as I once had a V8 powered car. In my very humble opinion and with minimal stress, the 60V6 or 90V6 conversions are comparable or overshadow, in many instances, a V8 conversion. The HP/torque figures for a stock 3.9 GM 60V6@240 HP are more than a 4.3 GM V6@195 HP and more than a common stock Ford 302@214 HP. I don't have the figures for a stock 3.9 or 4.0 V8 Rover but I would guess the 3.9 60V6 would be comparable. The 60V6 are a h... of a lot easier, lighter and the least expensive conversion of all MGB conversions. It is understood that you can build a V8 for power but so it is for the V6 also. I'm also sure your reply is eagerly awaited by many V6 "converters."

Cordially yours,
Dann Wade
British Car Conversions
Dann Wade

Your response says it all.........
I rest my case :)

Have a great weekend !

W Kerr
Wayne Kerr

Typical retribution! No guts no glory? To bad you misunderstood the whole meaning of the message. You could have contributed something worthwhile.

Dann
Dann Wade


You have a great weekend Wayne. I'll take this weekend to work on our newest V6 products which is great fun too. I know you won't be interested but some might be.


[http://www.rc-tech.net/cars/others/First%20protype%20cover.JPG]

[http://www.rc-tech.net/cars/others/MarcIIfrontcover.JPG]
Sgt. Dann

If you do a V6 conversion, then you will always regret not adding 2 more cylinders and getting that awesome V8 sound.......

W Kerr


what a nit wit, i own both v8 and v6 mg's and i have no real bias one way or another. but since sound is what matters to you wayne why not just get a cd of drag racing sounds and drive around in your stock mgb playing it. would be way more cost effective???

OTOH: when i drive my mgb-gt v8 i find myself dreaming of the Triton V10 motor in my F250???
james madson

If you are going to convert an mgb, why even consider a v6? Be honest to your selfs you know you want a ROVER V8,
ROVER 5 speed, MGC rear end, nothing else will do.
V6 belongs in mini vans.
Stop the bla, bla, bla, for the millonth time.
Romney

Dann, that's a fantastic piece of work. I expected that new front cover to be something special and you certainly did not disappoint. What are you using for mount brackets to the body?

Some of you other guys are in danger of getting a little bit out of hand and there's no cause to be rude. I'll grant you that chewing on the "other faction" can be fun and entertaining but try to keep a friendly face on it if you can, there's no need to hurt anyone's feelings over it. There's a lot of good in both type of conversions.

I've been having a great time getting out in this mild fall weather and driving around. Haven't been able to resist getting a little silly now and then, wagging the tail end, spinning tires, making lots of noise, that sort of thing. I don't watch it the Sheriff's deputys'll be wanting to talk with me. Just havin' a little fun Ocifer!

Jim
Jim Blackwood

Hi Jim, I can always count on you to throw water on the flame! (chuckle))

I can easily visualize the scenario that you painted while enjoying your car. That machine is a outrageous beast to the max.

I'd like to say that I really appreciated you taking time to give me the details on the Megasquirt while you were here. Since I'm on the subject can you give me the best store to by from. I will be buying kits and we already discussed that I will be using FI with GM DIS.

The mounts on the front cover just might be adaptable to the original MGB perches. We are looking into it but right now we are using an outer "frame" mounted bracket that will support the vibration isolators with a single 1/2" bolt. It is also possible that the original perches will not have to be removed.

Thanks for the complement, I know it comes sincerely.

Best to ya,
Dann
Dann Wade

Glensgarage.com is probably the best central source for every need, including the RS Autosport wiring harness, cases, assembled kits, and so on. Also the MegaSquirt Purchasing link: http://www.megamanual.com/v22manual/mintro.htm#group
has lots of good info not just on sources but on most of the other stuff you might like to know. I like to get the black cases with the cnc machined end plates which have mounting feet too, makes it a lot easier to mount the box.

Jim
Jim Blackwood

OK apparently there was more code in that link so you'll have to scroll down maybe 2/3 of the way. Glen's link again:
http://www.glensgarage.com/

Jim
Jim Blackwood

Thanks much Jim. I am looking at the site right now.

Dann
Dann Wade

Not again!

Night or day, black or white, Good or Bad, V6 or V8 who cares do what you want, what ever turns you on.

Nope! does not steer my pot.

One thing for sure, we all belong in the same group, BMCD (British Modified Cars Drivers)
Just make sure we all get together next year and have fun with those V10 B's ops! they are missing two cylinders TOO! Forgot V8's B's and those V6 B's which are missing two cylinders also. Lets all get together for some real fun with all those B's missing cylinders.

How about those B's with different 4 cylinders engines? they are missing 2/4 cylinders
They must be real outsiders. Of course not!!





Bill Guzman

Don't forget the rotaries Bill, no cylinders at all!
Peter

Now that it's fall and acorns are dropping everywhere, I've got enough tree rats around the house to drive a treadmill powered car to a new land speed record. How would that be?
Dan Masters

Dan,I'm restoring a factory V8 at the moment which had obviously been the home to squirrels for some years.Two nests in the engine bay and a crossmember so full of acorns I'm not sure I'll ever get them all out.The nuts and nests do appear to have kept the car dry in these areas[or were they used because it was dry].There is not even surface flaking and the wiring has been left intact.So,when you curse your squirrels next, just remember,they helped keep the tin-worms down in one MGB!Everything has its place in nature even if it's difficult to see sometimes!Regards Peter
Peter Jones

Not trying to throw a spanner in the cogs but why not go my way. Pulled the V8 out (Rover 3.5) and dropped in a year 2000 Toyota 2JZ, 3.0 litre fuel injected straight six and puts out 220 hp in stock trim backed up by a Toyota 5 speed (6 speed is also available but I didn't want to spend the extra money). More than plenty of power plus Japanese reliability. The sources for the motors are Supras, Lexus SC300/400 or Soarers (domestic Japanese). Since I live in a warn country, I hacked out the heater box and moved the engine all the way back and I was able to close the original "B" hood without it hitting anything. It's in the paint shop now and will post it on the V8 site when it's done. Cheers.
Arayan Lias

arayan, that sounds like a great conversion, did you get the ac in also? that set up have is quite expensive here in the states when compared to a bop 215 or even a run of the mill 302 ford motor, just one of the factors that drives conversions. i was at the sport tuning dyno shop last week and they were working on installing a twin turbo driveline from a nissan skyline into a very stock looking 240 body, they swapped out the tranny so it was rear wheel drive and not awd, it ran almost 700hp on the dyno at the flywheel, it looks like it would fit into a b engine bay if the heater shelf was removed????? got ot go buy some lottery tickets, later, jim
james madson

Well, the MG company did make a straight six B,... Oops, that was the C wasn't it? Several neat things about the C like 5 lug wheels but they're kinda scarce. I wonder just out of curiosity and for no practical reason, how hard would it be to attach the C front suspension to the B body? Have to have anchors for the torsion bars of course but what about the rest? It's been a very long time since I looked at one. Don't know why anybody would want to do such a thing either, maybe to put a straight six in a B or something, which would be an odd thing to do anyway. I do know the guy who held the NHRA record for sixes in the late sixties or early seventies with his silver/gray Corvette. It was pretty quick. Well one thing for sure, there would be more room by the inner wings. Unless it had turbos.

Jim
Jim Blackwood

i think the economics of his in line six are a big factor jim, these cars and engines are very cheap where he lives, you can get parts almost anywere as well as get it serviced. certainly more so than a 5.0 ford. the front suspension of a C would make it the perfect candidate for a cast iron gm 350 swap due to the increase in weight. but don't tell the C register guys you're going to cut one up.
james madson

Hi Jim and Jim,

Yes, I did get the a/c in, which was no problem, lots of room on the sides. Knocked off the heater shelf and placed the engine as far back as I can. Economy and parts availability were parts of the reason but the other was to "modernize" the car. I did a Rover 3.5 conversion when the car was in the states but wanted something different when I moved and brought the car to the tropics. This is the fourth engine for this car. Originally, I wanted to stuff an all alloy 4.0 Toyota V8 (1UZ-FE) into it but it was way too wide since it was a 32 valve quad-cam engine. There would be nothing left of the fenders. I then tinker with the idea of using the NA Toyota straight six (2JZ-GE). Er..yes, I know that it's been done before, an MG "C" or something like that. It has got plenty of power on tap for my MG go-kart (220 hp) without me having to tweak it every weekend and parts are plentiful and reasonable. A Twin-Turbo version would be a simple swap. Since Toyota uses the essentially the same engine, the 2JZ-GTE,rated at 330 hp stock, over 1000 hp have been coaxed out of these crazy Japanese engines. I kind of like the swap since it is unusual, might even be a first. Cheers.
Arayan Lias

I did look in tp the pssibility of using a torsion bar front suspension. The bars would come from a samll truck and it can be done, but....it takes time and hard to clibrate to the b weight.
Bill Guzman

i had them on my old 914 and spent a lot of time to get them right. i have them on my peugeot/mini rear now and they seem to work okay.
james madson

One thing about torsion bars is that although made of spring steel it is possible to cut the material with carbide tools, so if a lathe is handy the spring rate can be reduced by taking light cuts off the diameter. Which means, if one did happen to want to put a lighter engine in the car and retain the same stiffness it could be done at a reasonable cost. Likewise if performance bars are available they can be fine tuned, or if a suspension from a heavier car is adapted the bars can be lightened. Just food for thought,

Jim
Jim Blackwood

Going back to Arayan's comment about the Toyota 32valve V8 being to wide, I have always assumed that one of the reasons why some people favour a V6 is that they are normally 60 degree Vs so there should be space for double overhead cam per bank heads.
David Witham

Wait!!! did you say STRAIGHT SIX? are the missing pistons one in the front and one in the rear?

Dan, the only rat power car that I remember is my 40 Ford with a rat 427 Chevy.
Bill Guzman

This thread was discussed between 03/10/2006 and 19/10/2006

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