Steve -
Okay, here we go. Brad (I think it was Brad) was being
quite fair. The difference in the engines and transmissions
does make a major difference in the nature of the car.
The 1500 Engine has one real weakness. It's hard on its
main and rod bearings, particularly the crankshaft thrust
washers. however, they can all be replaced with the engine
in the car.
Now, there was a ton of emissions crud hung on it that was
badly designed and poorly implemented, but is easily made
right if you know what you're doing.
The cooling system is hard pressed (mostly because the 5 MPH
bumpers don't allow for as much airflow), and has to be kept
in top condition.
That's the con. The pro is that it's the most powerful
(stock) engine ever put into a Midget. To some extent, it
needed to be to offset the additional weight of the 5 MPH
bumpers and the other crash protection that was required by
the Feds. But you still have a 3-digit top speed in stock
form.
The transmission is hard to break, and has synchro on all
forward gears.
The pro on the earlier >engines< is tradition, simplicity
(no emissions crud) and a tougher bottom end (at least until
you hop it up). The con is less power (until you hop it
up).
The pro on the earlier >cars< (to distinguish the engine
issue form the total car) is light weight and more nimble
handling (because of the light weight).
They're both fun, but you should make an educated choice.
If I could afford a stable of (unmodified) toys, I would
have a 948 Frogeye for a run through the twisties, but would
take a 1500 for daily living and long runs.
Chris K.
> On Sunday, June 15, 2003, at 09:41 PM, Brad Fornal wrote:
>
> > Steve, Please!! Do some research before jumping into the
> > first Midget you see.
> > The early cars use the A series engines up to 1974, and
> > from 75 on they use a
> > Triumph based engine. There are pros and cons to both
> engines.
> Thanks for not wanting to taint my decision, but I think I
> need a little "tainting". I'm very mechanically-capable
> and have plenty (read years) of time to make things
> right. What's good or bad about the engine? Are you
> thinking about the smog control add-ons?
> Steve
>
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