A lot has happened which I will commit to words in the next few weeks, but right now I can report that a major milestone has been reached - I have successfully started the engine!
It doesn't sound like much, and really it should be a formality, but considering this engine hasn't run for almost 2 years, it has a whole new wiring loom, new ECU, new fuel system and throttles, it's not a bad achievement.
More updates to follow as I have got a bit further with the build.
Well done Sir, I look forward to that moment myself!
ReplyDeleteDon't blame you for the air punch celebrations!
ReplyDeleteQuick question if I may though, what engine mounts have you used? Original MX5? Own build? GBS's?
Hi Nick,
DeleteBlogger is doing something funny and I'm not sure if my reply's are getting to you... I'll send it again.
The mounts are from GBS. I'm using the 1.8 engine which needs slightly different mounts to the 1.6. The engine fits very snugly although the clutch arm pushes against the chassis when fully disengaged - GBS say this shouldn't matter for the IVA, and the clutch does disengage fully with the pedal down.
All the best!
Jon.
Hi Jon, another question! How close to the alternator is your lower steering column? Mine hits the alternator if I position it normally, will need a smaller alternator or hope to find a shorter belt instead I think!
ReplyDeleteHi Nick,
DeleteSorry for the late reply. Yes, I had the same problem. I think the 1.8 engine is significantly wider than the 1.6.
The original alternator would not fit with the steering shaft where it was and I could see no way of moving the shaft enough to change that. I got a smaller alternator which fits nicely the only problem being the belt is obviously too big and I can't use the original bracket with the handy tightening adjuster on it. The old belt is just tight enough to turn the alternator but I suspect it will not be good enough for the IVA.
I got the small alternator from GBS as they were the cheapest and assured me it would fit and it did. I made a new top bracket out of some 4mm steel bar but I might remake that as I'm not sure it's going to be strong enough long term. I'm still looking for somewhere to get a smaller belt from so I'll let you know if I find one - let me know if you find one first!
Jon,
Great result to start first time after all those changes!
ReplyDelete