Thinking of taking on a project, any advice?

[MrMark]

I'm new to posting here but not new to the forums. I'm considering taking on a project in the future and would like some input/advice/ideas/tips and such from those more experienced.

Basically what I want to do is find a Geo Metro or similar small car, take out the engine and replace it with a small diesel engine, and do some aerodynamic modifications.

My goal besides being a learning experience is to try to see if I can crack the 100mpg mark while still having a usable vehicle that can (hopefully) do 70mph for sustained periods.

I have seen some videos of someone who put a small diesel in a Ford Festiva and other videos of others putting small diesels in various small vehicles. I'm sure it can be done but I wont tackle such a project till I learn more about how exactly to do such a conversion.

So is there any advice tips or suggestions from those who may know?

Planned mods to the vehicle:
* Full boat tail
* ScanGauge
* Convert to diesel and maybe add a turbo
* Various "deletions" as needed for aerodynamics
* Possibly modding the hood to windshield angle if needed
* Full wheel curtains front and back
* Various streamlining mods
* Full underside pan
* More mods likely after I decide on a donor vehicle to use for this beast

[Frank Lee]

I would start with the hood to windshield angle, as that is the #1 thing.

[gasstingy]

Welcome aboard! Since you are going to try and stuff a diesel into a small car, you may want to read about MAX here: Our DIY Car: The Quest for 100 MPG

You can read about the trials Jack went through (and is still doing more ) in his efforts to get great fuel economy. He outlines the efforts of adapting a Kuboat diesel to an older Corolla wagon for testing before dropping it into a classic (styled) sportscar. Lots of good stuff there as well as the resources you'll find here.

Good luck to ya'