To many the answer looks obvious...

But the question is in light of that I have my trusty mk2 with 1.6 xflow which is going to take too much time to tidy the bodywork so decided to build a locost. I am fortunate to have fitted less than 2,000 milesago a new Quaiffe ATB diff into the axle.

If I was to go for an XE installation would the escort axle casing and diff take the extra power (considering I don't have feable ford planet gears!!) ???

Also the car will be made to be used in europe so would be made in LHD format, is the XE better suited to a LHD installation or is it the xflow?

Will the chassis need to be hugely different for the XE installation from the xflow?

Thanks in advance for any comments

PS I have the manta fitting dizzy, gearbox etc to make the xe installatn complete so there would only be extra cost for carburation. BUT, did I read somewhere that twin webbers are not OK on SVA?

From what I have heard the escort axle is pretty safe up until about 190-200bhp. Even then i don't think it's the diff that starts to get upset but the halfshafts. With a stockish XE I dont except you will have much trouble.

As for the XE in a book chassis it can and has been done numerous times. It is a big heavy engine and its height can cause a headache. I cant think of any reason why it couldnt be used in a LHD configuration though. Otherwise, it's a damn good engine for not a lot of money.

Cheers,
Andy

With the crossflow you will have to route the steering column around the exhaust manifold - not a major problem, as you could take them horizontal and over the top of the chassis (often seen).

You will also have to get around the alternator somehow...

Here's a picture (ignore the yellow circle!) where you can see the exhaust and the edge of the alternator.



Apart from those, there's nothing in the way...

HTH,
David

do you think it would be to just go for a RHD installation or is there an idea engine to use on LHD locosts?