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Project Lite-Weight -- 1983 Mustang Coupe (Notchback)  

Log #001  January, 2003

 

Motor is being prepped for installation. Passenger side header is clearanced for safety bellhousing. We usually install this header on the motor prior to installation. At this point we notice the header flange is covering up a portion of the spark plug area. This time a little use of a small air grinder and we are set to install. As of now we have installed the motor in the second notch of our HAL k-member, which now brings up several issues.

Other Articles in Series Project Lite-Weight - 1983 Mustang Coupe - Stats Log #001 - January, 2003 Log #002 - February, 2003 Log #003 - March, 2003 Log #004 - Summer, 2003 Log #005 - Winter, 2004 Log #006 - Spring, 2004

Project Liteweight 306.

Motor Going In.

The reason for using the set back position is primarily to aid in weight transfer. It is an old concept which goes back to the early days of drag racing when factory funny cars and experimental racers were ruling the earth. It still works! Here’s a small list of some of the problems we are encountering by moving the engine back less than 1 full inch! 1) Since we are using a Tremec, we will have to fabricate our own transmission crossmember. The tremec is already clearance handicapped in the tranny mount area, the setback will dump that portion of the tailhousing right on top of the crossmember. We have ordered a Comp-Engineering piece and we’ll let you know how that works. 2) Driveshaft will definitely be shortened (Driveshaft Shop, Bohemia). 3) Hole in the floorpan will be trimmed a bit.

Another Angle of Motor Going In.

Engine in set-back position on Hal K-Member.

Grinded Header.

While we are waiting for our crossmember, lets install the Maximum Motorsports full length subframe connectors (watch for our article in the tech section).

See ya soon.  -- Mike

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