Glad to see you're rolling with this!
The differential is off-center on the drive. I was just planning on using different length half-shafts. Actually, even though the differential is off center those driveshafts that connect to the differential are different lengths, so the CVT joints themselves could be centered. How do you plan to position the drive vertically? Is the drive between the rails at the centerline of the axle?
Oh yeah - you do plan to mount oriented so the motor is in front of the differential? That way the built-in lubrication will work. In that case, if you wanted to add an external pump and oil cooler, it would be helpful but not critical. It could also be pretty easy using the drain and a fill port that is located next to the breather.
I have a couple mechanic's training manuals from "Toyota University" if you would like. They're mostly for the entire vehicle, with not tooooo much info on the MGR. I'll see if I can find the original link, otherwise I'd be happy to e-mail them to you.
**edit** found one of them:
http://facultyfiles.deanza.edu/gems/...torOutline.pdf
This might be a good time to put out a request for a factory service manual for either the Highlander Hybrid or the Lexus. So far I've had no luck, but I've found the manuals to be invaluable for my Toyota Pickup.
- E*clipse
Quote:
Originally Posted by freebeard
I like the title. Bill Fisher's book How to Hot Rod Volkswagen Engines has been a classic for years.
My thought was at $400 I'd get two and use the best one. In the event I went with the $650 Lexus part. I rationalize it by saying maybe the yard knows it's worth more than others. We'll see—it should be delivered by Monday.
I've measured the vehicle and I have 11" between the frame rails. It might be tight getting the axle centerline to the original location. I may have to rotate the unit 5-10° up in front and the vertical clearance looks tight. The plan is to make a 1/8" steel plate carrier that will lie below the MGR, adapt it's mounting tabs and fit to the stock VW rubber transaxle mounts.
For benefit of those not in the AC controller thread, my hope is to use the Toyota gearset as a raw material for additional hardening and machining, and put it in an understressed installation to see if I can get by without an external oil pump.
Toyota must have training materials for their mechanics. Those mechanics must go someplace for a beer after work. Hmmmm.....
Edit: Will it be possible to drive one of Paul's controllers from 120v or 240v mains power, at a bench dynamometer? |