New to the CA area... couple questions

[Bwana]

I've been mostly in the Q45 and gen chat areas but now I'm branchin' out.

I recently purcahased a '77 MGB, stock. It has some clutch/transmission issues and needs some major engine tuning, so I'm considering swapping in a CA18DET. I've been reading around in here awhile and also searching around and haven't found anyone who's done this, though I have found a couple of SR's swapped into B's. If anyone here knows of someone who's done this swap, point me their way...

So I'd like some input from some of you who know these engines well. I would need to get an engine/transmission combo complete with ecm and harness, which I haven't been able to find through any of our vendors. Could someone point me the right way there?

I'm not too concerned about modifying the engine at this point (but I may be persuaded ) because I'll be upgrading my power about 275% over stock anyway. I know I'll also be looking at fitting an intercooler somewhere and fabing the piping, but not very worried about that. I'm also thinking I may have to replace the radiator as well, but maybe some of you could inform me better as to the needs of the CA?

Anything I'm totally overlooking or screwed up on? Weight is no issue, as the CA and it's transmission should be lighter than the stock setup, even with turbo i/c etc. I've considered an SR as well, but they seem a bit cost prohibitive since I'm not looking for extreme power.

Let me know what you all think. I can really use your suggestions. Thanks in advance!

[Bwana]

Ok....

Can I at least get someone to give me a measurement from the front of the bellhousing to the shifter on a CA transmission?

[float_6969]

I saw a picture of this done, but it's been so long ago, I don't know who did it or where to find them. As for finding a complete motorset, there is a sticky at the top of this forum, dedicated to just that. None of our sponsor's sell CA's.

As for advice, plan on the regular tune up stuff, water pump, timing belt, ect. Ditch the stock turbo, it's horrendously small. At least jump up to an SR T25. If possible, do a leak down test, as they seem to often have worn rings and need a minor rebuild.

[NeedCAforS13]

Ok....

Can I at least get someone to give me a measurement from the front of the bellhousing to the shifter on a CA transmission?

should be the same as any s13 transmission. but I can do this later for ya. Another thing to consider (If you want a shorter transmission) Is using a CA18ET transmission from a 200sx s12. It'll bolt right to your CA18DET, and its about 3 inches shorter than the s13 box.

Sean

[Bwana]

Another thing to consider (If you want a shorter transmission) Is using a CA18ET transmission from a 200sx s12. It'll bolt right to your CA18DET, and its about 3 inches shorter than the s13 box.

Sean

That's good to know. Over all length of the transmission's not much of an issue, but shifter location is.

Is the T25 the best option for a mild engine, or would I be better off swinging for a T28 right off. Also, what model/type of T25 would I be looking for?

[NeedCAforS13]

shifter location is 3 inches shorter too. Give or take just a bit. Basically its the same bellhousing, shorter case.

t25 is fine. Find one from an s13 SR20DET. If you want more power, a t28 from an s14/15 is a wonderful turbo. I have run both in the past, and liked them both.

Sean

[float_6969]

Just about any turbo is better than the stock unit.

[Bwana]

Sounds good. Can any of you point me in the direction of and engine/transmission? Is there a specific good place to get a turbo, or will ebay etc. work? Any dealers/sellers I should stay away from? Thanks!

[float_6969]

I got mine from Venus and it sucked. But others got it from there and it was fine. I think they're hit or miss.

Jhot on eBay seems to be a pretty reputable company. I got my silvia conversion from them and I was happy with it. I'm currently trying to purchase a VLSD from them as well.