Greetings all,
I've finally joined the forums (having cruised through them as a guest for a while), after buying a 1972 XA GS Rallye Pack Falcon Panelvan. My intention for this van is to set it up for mainly camping orientated/out of town pursuits and a bit of towing, however I'd like to retain the current 6 cylinder manual orientated driveline - but still want a bit more kick. With that in mind, I've started to look into the late model motors and transmissions for conversion processes. I'll also add here, I've searched these forums but can't find the info I want, to make my decision on.
I'm looking for all the good and bad points of all the different evolutions of 6 Cylinder motors as fitted to Australian Falcons. My background in 6 cylinders basically stops at the XA's 250 2V motors - I've never really taken much notice of the later model motor's as I've never had a use for them - so in that respect, I'm a novice. I do however have ample knowledge in V8's and lots of rice burner stuff, so definately not a mechanical noob, but more a guy looking to expand his knowledge base.
Basically I'm looking for a standard motor and 5 speed box combination that will best suit my needs which are:
1: Something with relatively low Kms that I can install, run on the standard computer, and start the project "rolling" - I'm happy to leave the set up standard until I need to open the motor up for repair, over pulling it to pieces to start again. Must be 5 speed manual - I've never been big on autos and I prefer manuals for towing anyway.
2: Something I can turbo later down the track for the fuel economy of low boost, good torque down low, and hopefully improved mileage.
3: Something available now that won't break the bank - ie no BA XR6 Turbo motors sorry.
Ideally, I'd like the info to be able to make an informed decision - this is where you guys come in! You'll know more about the gamit of blocks, reciprocating masses and compressions, heads, inlet designs and factory computers, than I can find easily, so I'd like to hear all the good and bad points please?
On a side line to that thinking I also want to look at installing a 5 speed behind the current XA 250 motor currently in the car (I want to use the car for touring before performing the engine conversion)before April. With that in mind, and considering the flywheel I have currently on the back of the motor (standard item for the toploader clutch), what will simply bolt in? I don't mind also replacing the flywheel if I have to, but it must be a simple bolt on job. I assume I'll be limited to XF only 5 speed boxes, or will the later model EA onwards style 5speeds also bolt up?Suggestions on this "sub matter" please?
I've finally joined the forums (having cruised through them as a guest for a while), after buying a 1972 XA GS Rallye Pack Falcon Panelvan. My intention for this van is to set it up for mainly camping orientated/out of town pursuits and a bit of towing, however I'd like to retain the current 6 cylinder manual orientated driveline - but still want a bit more kick. With that in mind, I've started to look into the late model motors and transmissions for conversion processes. I'll also add here, I've searched these forums but can't find the info I want, to make my decision on.
I'm looking for all the good and bad points of all the different evolutions of 6 Cylinder motors as fitted to Australian Falcons. My background in 6 cylinders basically stops at the XA's 250 2V motors - I've never really taken much notice of the later model motor's as I've never had a use for them - so in that respect, I'm a novice. I do however have ample knowledge in V8's and lots of rice burner stuff, so definately not a mechanical noob, but more a guy looking to expand his knowledge base.
Basically I'm looking for a standard motor and 5 speed box combination that will best suit my needs which are:
1: Something with relatively low Kms that I can install, run on the standard computer, and start the project "rolling" - I'm happy to leave the set up standard until I need to open the motor up for repair, over pulling it to pieces to start again. Must be 5 speed manual - I've never been big on autos and I prefer manuals for towing anyway.
2: Something I can turbo later down the track for the fuel economy of low boost, good torque down low, and hopefully improved mileage.
3: Something available now that won't break the bank - ie no BA XR6 Turbo motors sorry.
Ideally, I'd like the info to be able to make an informed decision - this is where you guys come in! You'll know more about the gamit of blocks, reciprocating masses and compressions, heads, inlet designs and factory computers, than I can find easily, so I'd like to hear all the good and bad points please?
On a side line to that thinking I also want to look at installing a 5 speed behind the current XA 250 motor currently in the car (I want to use the car for touring before performing the engine conversion)before April. With that in mind, and considering the flywheel I have currently on the back of the motor (standard item for the toploader clutch), what will simply bolt in? I don't mind also replacing the flywheel if I have to, but it must be a simple bolt on job. I assume I'll be limited to XF only 5 speed boxes, or will the later model EA onwards style 5speeds also bolt up?Suggestions on this "sub matter" please?