Tall Block clearance

[stuartgb100]

Can anyone tell me if the bigger 1700+ cc crossflow block engines fit ok in both the +0 and +2 engine bay?

specifically:

1. Is there adequate bonnet/hood clearance?
2. Are standard engine mounts used?

Regards,
Stuart.

[tdafforn]

I have 711M block and crank that has been decked to fit the normal twincam pistons..
It fits under a +2 bonnet (just). however I had to swap the "big valve" cam cover for an earlier model to give more clearence
Tim

[stuartgb100]

Thanks Tim.

Just leaves the question for the +0 then ........... ?

Regards,
Stuart.

[msd1107]

More than 10 years ago, my mechanic recommended the tall block when I went to a long stroke engine.

It fits my early S4 Elan with Webbers and no power bulge.

However, I felt then, and feel even more strongly today, keep the TC block. I don't have the Dave Bean catalog in front of me, but I remember they had a selection of piston pin heights and connecting rod lengths to accommodate various combinations of block heights, strokes, and connecting rod lengths.

David
1968 36/7988

[rgh0]

Fit on the plus 2 is tighter than on the 2 seater Elan.

My standard 1500 block big valve cam cover engine just fits with the spyder chassis and standard body. If I fitted a tall block in my plus 2 I would need to change the cam cover and / or drop the engine by modification of the mounts

Fitting a tall block in a 2 seat Elan should be easier and there is just enough room on my Elan with standard body and chassis if I did not use a high lift mount on the carb side which would not be needed with the taller block. However given the variation in bodies and chassis and the closeness of the fit you would need to check the specific car involved and may need to do some minor engine mount mods to get adequate bonnet clearance.

cheers
Rohan

[cocky]

I had a tall block in my S4 several years ago and it cleared the bonnet. I found that I needed the raised engine mount on the carby side. This of course does not mean that all Elans would accomodate the tall block without clearance issues as Rohan stated above.
Cheers,
Chris

[ncm]

One point to consider is that the 711M block has (IIRC) 3/8inch extra metal in the exhaust side mounting bosses...not a problem in the +2 which has spacers between the mounting and the block on that side as standard, but a possible snag for the +0??

Brian.

[stuartgb100]

Many thanks for all the replies.

Looks like a "suck it and see" situation then, but seems do-able with maybe some fettling.

I've an early Spyder chassis in the +0, so may give Wiggy a call at Spyder to see if they have any previous on this subject.

Thanks again.

Regards,
Stuart.