As promised in the last blog entry, this is an update on the power train!

After two years of searching for a adapter plate to mate a BMW M60 V8 540i motor to a Audi 016 transaxle (gearbox/tranny), I have found someone that could do it in Johannesburg! (No it wasnt GILO Engineering, after MANY attempts at begging and pleading, they just refused to do the job.) The gearbox and engine were put together with a custom flywheel and a VW 240mm clutch/pressure plate. The plate was milled from an aluminium block and looks just stunning. If you need an adapter lake this give me a shout and I will help you organise it.

The pictures in the blog show the engine going in, and two shots of the engine from the side and top. Everything matches up quite nicely and there is ample space for the engine. The rear frame was measured out perfectly to accommodate the suspension pickup points and the size of the engine block. The gearbox uses Ford V6 mounting block and the front mounts are from an Audi lying on custom made brackets (4mm steel). The bottom of the engine (sump) is nearly level with the bottom of the chassis.

Since the engine has gone in I have completed the brake lines, clutch lines and master/slave cylinders, repositioning of the oil filter, handbrake lever and cable, pedal box, gear shifter and fuel balancing pipe (between the two fuel tanks). On the to-do list is the water expansion tank, gear linkage cables, petrol pump and filter. These should be quote easy in comparison though.

Check in again for more close-ups as the rear fibreglass goes back on and final changes (Like engine lid modifications) are made. My aim is to complete all fabrication and initial assembly before the end of the year. January I would like to strip the entire vehicle and send chassis for welding. Time marches on...