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what size motor for a 32 roadster
I would like to build a 32 roadster but I'm not sure what size engine to run. I would like to get at least low 20's for gas mileage. I was thinking of getting a 4.3L and trans form a late model S-10 (2000 and up). I have not seen or heard of anyone putting a v6 in a 32 roadster, all I see is V8. I would think that a roadster is not that heavy so a V6 should have enough power. I also thought about using a V8 and just changing the rear-end gears when I plan on going on a long trip. But that could be a lot of work. Any thoughts or suggestions would be great.
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I know of several early rods running GM V6 engines, they fit easily. I'm a Ford guy so I would nudge you that way. I've seen a 300 inch Ford six in a Deuce and it was pretty nice and the mileage was way up in the 20s, may have even bumped 30 mpg.
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If you want the car to be worth anything you have to go with a V8. That said, just about any small block (Ford, Chevy, Mopar) hooked to an overdrive automatic trans with decent rear end gearing will give you 20 MPG or better as long as you don't pump up the horsepower too much.
As a Mopar guy I would council against the small block Chevy simply because there are a zillion of them in duces and who wants just another deuce. I would suggest something different like a small Buick Nailhead, Ford small block, or Mopar 318-360. You might even try a Ford modular motor just to be different. Good luck. |
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The comment regarding value is a valid point...if your planning on selling. If you are building it for yourself it's what YOU think will be best. As an aside to the value thing, if you do go with the 90* V6 they have the same bellhousing pattern as the V8, so a later swap would be fairly easy.
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A big block would be cool, and still a little different. How many little 32's do you see with a packed engine compartment area. I have only seen one in person, and man, it looked wicked.
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I agree with nothing but a V8 for value sake. I also agree with the low to mid 20's mileage on just about any V8, be it Ford, Chevy, or Mopar. All the street rods in our club are powered by V8's. The ones that have OD transmissions and decent rear gears (3:70 or below) get very good mileage on the highway at 70mph.
Vince |
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You are 26 years old. You will hate a V-6. They just don't sound right. Also one thing to consider, registering the car. If it is a replica and you are going to title it as a special construction, You may be required to have all the emission control stuff that comes with the motor that you use. You should check the laws in your state before you choose a motor so you dont get a nasty surprise at the DMV. If you can title it as a 32 or if Wisc. is easy on registration then it won't matter. The laws here in Cal are making it harder to build a car and register it. Do yourself a favor and check it out now, before you make a decision. Oh yeah, FORD V8 is my pick. 351 windsor or 5.0.
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my signature lines...not really directed at anyone in particular.. BE different....ACT normal. No one is completely useless..They can always be used as a bad example |
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As one of the few here that has replied that actually owns a 32 Ford Roadster.... .....I believe a SBC is the best way .....but I will admit to being biased. Over 25 years of having a SBC powered Deuce will do that to you. ![]() A SBC just fits better than just about everything else. Plenty of power, ease of maintenance and parts availability all make the little Chevy the logical choice.........in my book. Resale too..... My SBC is 430 Horsepower......and still gets decent mileage . My all steel full fendered Roadster only weighs 2240 lbs. I had a ZZZ crate engine ( 350 C.I. @ 345 HP ) in the 32 for a while ...40,000 miles or so.....and got over 20 MPG with it. That's with a Turbo 400 and a 3.25 gear. Now.I am running a 3.50 with the larger HP and still get 16 to 17 MPG. ....on the highway. IF you go with the SBC or the V6 4.3 .....get the raised up water pump. It raises the fan 5 and 1/2 inches, has a alternator and A/C mount and uses short water pump pulleys. A SBF Ford is longer than a SBC....and requires a real set back firewall cut or a shortened water pump and a different oil filter set up. ALL that for 289 or 302 inches. A 351 can be MADE to go in but is even more cutting, and adapting...... The steering is also easier to fit with the SBC.... A 283 or a 305 should get 25 MPG real easy in a Deuce Roadster.... and still be fairly quick....
Last edited by Deuce; 12-04-2005 at 10:39 AM. |
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I agree 5.0 HO 302 89-93 SEFI is what I would do, Plenty of go fast parts available and rock solid reliable..
2wld4u |
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Quote:
If it is a kit car...with aftermarket frame and plastic body....(and "real title") then you have to be very careful. Several states are revoking registrations on "suspected" fraudulent vehicles. There is a least one 32 roadster "kit car" with a real Montana title that was built out here and is running around California now...
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Man, thanks everyone for the replies. A lot of good points and things to think about. My thought on the V6. I don't think most people drive their 32's with their foot to the floor. So I didn't think that a big motor would be needed. If I use a GM 262 it has the same trans mounting and motor mounts as a 350. But if what people are saying, I can get 20 mpg with a V8, then a V8 would be a good. I would probable use an EFI 350 and a 700R4 with a ford 9inch. As for registration I have looked into that. From what I found all I need to do is call the Wisconsin DMV and they will issue me a vin number. A kit car is built to match the time you are replicating then all you have to do is match the safety and emission of that time period. I'm sure I would need seat belts. And there is no emission testing in my area(yet). I don't think that's a problem. And the state patrol needs to come and see the car. If my info is not correct I will not be offended if someone corrects me. Sorry about the long post.
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Quote:
The new 1990 Model got 21 MPG on the highway.....with a 3.42 rear Then I bought a new 1996........22 MPG ....with a 3.08 My new 5.3 Silverado is at around 20 to 21 MPG ......highway. So a roadster can do better......Mine weighs 2240 pounds...... Also........if you can buy a original title...........do it.......and then stamp the numbers on your frame......top of the frame......just in front of the firewall..........drivers side.....TRUST ME..... down the road.....you will thank me.... . |
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