Quote:
Originally Posted by NeilBlanchard
John, What's your plan for the drivetrain? The 1966 Saab 96 had a 2-stroke 3 cylinder engine, and it was a nightmare. Overheating is a huge risk with a 2-stroke so no grill blocks...
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From what I have learned about the "Old Smokey" there were problems but I wouldn´t call them a nightmare. The stock main bearings could seize and the cooling was less efficient until the radiator moved from behind the engine to the front in 1965. (new body nicknamed "longnose") In later years the main bearings are of higher quality. The cooling can be improved on a pre-1965 "shortnose" by cutting up holes in the rear of the bonnet at the sides. This was done at most rally cars.
The 4-stroke Ford V4 that was used from 1967 to the end 1979 or -80 is perhaps not the best of engines but it´s more efficient than the "bluesmoker". I am building something of a 1964 replica from a 1974 body so I can do just about anything I like without destroying a nice vintage car. I have got myself a 1965 two-stroker that I will install, at least to start with. I have childhood memories from my grandfather´s 1964 so I just have to experience this for a while! I´m also very curious to see how efficient I can manage to drive such an engine, -first with a standard body, then with aeromods. I expect to be way more efficient than an average 2-stroke saab owner.
What happens next I´m not sure about, but I guess I will either replace the Old Smokey by a small diesel or install the diesel in the rear as a plug-in unit with extra efficient transmission. I have a tiny 2-cylinder Kubota that I hope can deliver the power needed but then the car has to be extremely aerodynamic and lightweight. Having two different powerplants will increase weight and reduce luggage capacity but it will definitely improve reliability! Being stucked at the side of the highway or in the center of town during rush-hour isn´t the funniest thing in the world and I´ve had my share of it with all old junk-cars I´ve owned through the years... (but I continue to chose that risk before the payments for a new car over and over again)
Here´s some short vintage Saab engine history:
Saab two-stroke - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia