----- Original Message -----
From: "Louis & Laila" <bwana@c2i2.com>
To: "Keith Johnson" <keiths55@bigpond.net.au>
Sent: Tuesday, December 16, 2003 12:06 AM
Subject: Re: Holdens and Sunbeams
> Keith, what is the 2130 stroker kit? I have never heard of that. Lou
That must have got your attention :-))
People in Melbourne build stroker version of the alloy head Rootes engine as
fitted to you know what. Gives 2130cc for about $2130 (Aussie pesos :-))
This would be good for a reliable 150hp and could be convinced to give even
more. Only downside is longer stroke restricts top end rpm. A 1600cc three
bearing will rev out to 7000rpm, to get a 1725cc to rev past 6500 needs
special attention to oilways and big end bearings. If built for mid range
torque it would not be a problem.
Have a look at: http://www.sa.hillman.org.au/MrMinx.htm for some idea of
what sort of performance is possible from the 1725.
The big plus with this sort of internal surgery is that it doesn't show on
the outside, and here in Australia doesn't attract the attention of the main
road nazis, who try to ban any modifications.
The Rootes engine in it's various incarnations was a well designed unit.
Being square 3" x 3" it was always a willing performer. The eight port
cylinder head was years ahead of those used by MG/Austin/Morris etc as well
as the Ford and Holden engines so popular here.
The sedan versions just needed better carburettors and less restrictive
exhaust systems to get a very worthwhile gain in performance. The 1725 with
the .25" longer stroke gained torque at the expense of max rev range. But
torque is what makes it driveable.
Have seen a 1725 used in a 57 Minx able to reach 100mph in third and almost
120mph in top. Was fitted with later model dif ratio and 15" wheels for a
poor man's overdrive as well as the super Minx disc brakes. A truly awesome
little street racer. This was back in 1970.
The people who do the stroker don't have a web page, they just build
engines.
Keith
55 Californian
57 Rapier
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