Engine options

[ns1]

Caterham 1996 live axle  - originally had an asthmatic 1600ccc crossflow.  We initially fitted a supercharger however had heat and packing issues.

Have been told a sigma engine  offer the best balance option for a Caterham . The car is used 40% road 60 track. 

Whats the general consensus ? 

 

[Jonathan Kay]

I'd start by looking again at how you could develop that Crossflow.

Then I'd consider a Zetec, previous discussion here (and elsewhere):
https://www.lotus7.club/forum/techtalk/zetec-planning

...

It's a crude measure but what sort of power would you like?

Jonathan

[Wrightpayne]

Having seen a few of them, I really like the zetec swap in a crossflow. 2L crate engine, cams, DHTBs and 3d ignition should be good for 180bhp+ 

[ns1]

 There's option to turbo the Crossflow. Its has a steel crank and rods with low compression pistons . Its just the weight issue compared with the Sigma. The end result will be about the same 180bhp 

 

 

[Ivaan]

Put a bike engine in it!

Mine's a 1988 LA car with Yamaha R1 motor. 160 hp, 12,000 rpm, 6 speed sequential box, 380 kgs.

[Roger King]

It's a personal opinion, but I feel that a turbo is the worst possible way to go in a Caterham, whatever the engine. Aside from the inevitable heat management issues and extra weight, you are also losing it's instant throttle response

[7 wonders of the world]

2.0 Duratec  

[Drumster]

Andy Couchman of this parish has a lovely x/flow running on throttle bodies producing circa 170bhp. Personally more than happy with my 200bhp Zetec conversion after the x/flow grenadier itself

[Golf Juliet Tango]

I wouldn't swap from the Crossflow, I would get that engine sorted.

You will find any replacement plan is a more expensive route.

If you are determined to change, then Zetec is simpler than Sigma or Duratec.

[Nick T]

I got my xflow rebuilt with forged pistons and it was a peach of an engine. These days probably worth rebuilding (prices on the up) and if you want more power change to a different car ( I suspect cheaper overall). If you want to change then a Zetec would appear to be the obvious route. 

Present car has a Duratec which is madly fast but does not have the character of the  x flow. 

Cheers

Nick

[David Brown]

Presume you've a live axle, in which case you have to watch high power outputs. 

[ns1]

David ,  Yes it is a live axle . Its fully braced with Quaife half shafts and LSD. Don't expect I will see any issues other than the A frame mounting bush. 

 

[Golf Juliet Tango]

.

[ns1]

Crossflow it is! Now the   gearbox question  - Sequential  or H pattern.

[nickh7]

Zetec , just look at what the Chris and Matty Bramhall are achieving with there's