Return of the Manticore build: http://mazdaroadster.net/showthread....-4-engine-swap
oldgrayleather (03-14-2018)
Wait until the weather clears.
MiataQuest (03-15-2018)
I will be picking up the Miata this Saturday from MT Motorsports (Ecotecmiata) in Toronto, Ontario Canada.
The weather should be 22~37 degrees and sunny.
Hopefully I have no problems during the 4 hour return drive.
Return of the Manticore build: http://mazdaroadster.net/showthread....-4-engine-swap
Road trips involving new, or improved cars are great! Safe travels, I hope the new drivetrain exceeds expectations!
-Matt
MiataQuest (03-15-2018)
MiataQuest (03-15-2018)
I will be smiling the whole way even though the 407 & 401 Queen's Highway is straight as an arrow with a speed limit of 62 mph. But it does have nice pavement with no pot holes!
The engine is NEW so I will try to follow a break-in driving routine of regular mild acceleration and de-acceleration and not keep a steady speed. That may irritate my fellow drivers. Hopefully there will not be much traffic on a Saturday.
Return of the Manticore build: http://mazdaroadster.net/showthread....-4-engine-swap
New and shiny engine. Sounds like a dream.
So now it's time to start planning mods of the engine?
The dyno run was 189 horsepower with 191 lb ft torque. After the engine is broken-in I would assume it will add a few more ponies.
I had no problems during the 4-1/2 hour drive from Toronto to Detroit.
I varied my speed from 62 to 85 mph and did a lot of light acceleration and de-acceleration for break-in purposes.
My initial impressions are very positive. It is so much better than the 1.6 turbo that was in the car. Torque coupled with a linear power curve really enhances the driving experience without changing the weight/handling characteristics of the Miata. I like the uncomplicated engine bay without all the turbo and intercooling plumbing.
I would say all my goals were met.
Here is a picture of the engine bay including air conditioning, power steering, and oil cooler hoses.
I have some work to do the car over the next 4 weeks while I wait for the last snow and a good rain to wash away all the salt. After that I will give additional driving impressions and really put my foot in it after 1,500 miles of engine break-in.
Last edited by MiataQuest; 03-21-2018 at 04:13 PM.
Return of the Manticore build: http://mazdaroadster.net/showthread....-4-engine-swap
Greasemonkey2000 (03-21-2018),JamieH (03-21-2018),tsingson (03-21-2018)
Those are indeed 2554R 1.6L HP numbers, from a naturally aspirated motor! Exhaust is away from the brakes, and it looks right at home in there, very OEM-like. Good stuff!
-Matt
The big difference is that with 2.4 liters and some modern technology the engine has a broad torque curve. The Ecotec 2.4 power is NOW at just about any time. The turbo 1.6 fell on it's face unless you were over 5000 rpms which gave the effect of an ON & OFF switch. The 1.6 turbo was not fun to drive unless you exceeded 7/10.
Last edited by MiataQuest; 03-21-2018 at 04:14 PM.
Return of the Manticore build: http://mazdaroadster.net/showthread....-4-engine-swap
MacGyver'ed a lower radiator hose support... It was made from two different exhaust hangers plus a plumbing junction from the hardware store. The lower hose passes underneath the air conditioner and would rest on the tie rod. I think this should work well and not wear the hose.
We will see.
Installed
Return of the Manticore build: http://mazdaroadster.net/showthread....-4-engine-swap
Greasemonkey2000 (03-31-2018),Martin (03-31-2018),tsingson (03-31-2018)
I am experimenting with a 1964 Buick Wildcat grill bar.
It seems to work with my theme to create the "Eunos Manticore special edition".
In the picture the grill bar is just sitting there not quite located right. But you get the affect.
Imagine it with a Eunos Chevron style emblem or Manticore emblem in the center (so air can still flow around the emblem) to replace the Buick emblems. The tow hook would need to be re-located to look right.
What do you think?
It will go with this front lip spoiler that just arrived today. I still did not open the box.
Last edited by MiataQuest; 03-31-2018 at 03:41 PM.
Return of the Manticore build: http://mazdaroadster.net/showthread....-4-engine-swap
Greasemonkey2000 (03-31-2018)
Perhaps a custom metal pipe with the ends bead-rolled, joined by rubber hoses? I like it as a temp fix, but is it protected by an undertray?
Not feeling the Buick bar.
JamieH (04-01-2018),MiataQuest (03-31-2018),RustRat (04-01-2018)
Return of the Manticore build: http://mazdaroadster.net/showthread....-4-engine-swap
kung fu jesus (03-31-2018)
Regarding the Buick cue, the opening sits so low and far back on these cars, it is hard to see unless you stoop down to see or you are 20 feet away. Its also shadowed by the bumper overhang, so the highly reflective finish doesnt pop like it wants. A brushed finish might counter that, or a contrasting backdrop/accent lighting?
I assume the coolant hose support clears with the suspension in full compression?
MiataQuest (04-01-2018)