Rover 3.9 into a TVR2500M

harv8 · Post by **harv8** » Sun Jun 28, 2009 6:35 pm

I am considering installing a Rover 3.9 into my TVR 2500M.
I have been searching for information on such a conversion and have found nothing. Can anyone help?
The car currently has a Chevy 350 V8 in it which I intend to swap out.
I have a collection of Rover driveline stuff, headers, motor mounts, etc.

Thanks for any help.

Martyn

topcatcustom · Post by **topcatcustom** » Sun Jun 28, 2009 8:04 pm

Just out of interest, why do you want to go from a Chevy to a Rover, and from 350ci to 250ci? Over here we would rather do the opposite, but were a bit short on chevy bits

harv8 · Post by **harv8** » Sun Jun 28, 2009 8:46 pm

I'm not happy with the Chevy engine because it makes the car feel too heavy in the front. I like the light weight of the Rover engine. The exhaust headers curl up over the valve covers because of the lack of space between the heads and the frame rail. This may also be a problem for the Rover engine too.

topcatcustom · Post by **topcatcustom** » Mon Jun 29, 2009 8:28 pm

I dont know much about the Chevy lumps, though I'm sure the weight saving would be beneficial, but I think Rover lumps are slightly wider than the Chevy's(?) which may make your exhausts more of a problem!

harv8 · Post by **harv8** » Tue Jun 30, 2009 12:29 am

I suppose I should use a Ford 302 V8. I know that motor will fit.
I am currently installing one into my 74 MGBGT.

Cheers,
Martyn

kiwicar · Post by **kiwicar** » Tue Jun 30, 2009 2:50 pm

Hi
I may get banned from posting for this, but why not put the original straight 6 2500 lump back in (there was also a kit for this engine made by cosworth that took it to 2.7 litres with new pistons/ liners and cylinder head really nice bit of kit), the 2500 is a rare beast and a bit collectable!

Otherwise the 302 ford might be a good thought to save a bit of weight. For the best of both as you are on the right continent for sensable shipping costs how about the LS1/6 chevy, About same weight as the rover, twice the power and a decent modern design (and for you easier to get bits). With regard the exhausts, TVR always came forward to get the manifolds to clear everything then down and under the engine from the front.
Mike

ian.stewart · Post by **ian.stewart** » Tue Jun 30, 2009 3:31 pm

SBF--- fit ally heads, and the weight thing is only about 30lbs more than the Rover plus the SBF is a hell of a lot cheaper to tune, I think the v6 is about the same weight as the SBF with Iron heads!!!