Hi Guys,
I am starting to build the bottom end for my MK II and want a few pointers.
The car is being built as a weekend warrior so I'm not out for all out power but want to build a tough bottom end that could cope with up to 7500rpm occasionally at track days.
I have tracked down a set of datsun L16 rods for $60 and want to know what machining needs to be done to have them suit the standard crank.
Also I am thinking forged pistons.  As the L16 rods are 133mm long I think I need a piston with a CH of 35mm.
I have heard that VW pistons are popular and good value but would love some ideas of where to start looking at suitable pistons.
Cheers,
Matt

Wouldn't be cheaper to throw in some cheap spool style h beams and then use a piston to suit. Machining costs can add very quickly

I have been looking around the web at those too and have read that the Spool Rods are the same as the MaxSpeeding Roads just renamed and they have a few issues.  I may be wrong though.
 
http://forums.mg-rover.org/showthread.php?t=406766
 
For $60 for the datsun rods are very cheap and I can't see them costing as much to machine as buying new rods from spool at $500.
 
Cheers,
 
Matt
 
 

Matt75

I have been looking around the web at those too and have read that the Spool Rods are the same as the MaxSpeeding Roads just renamed and they have a few issues.  I may be wrong though.

http://forums.mg-rover.org/showthread.php?t=406766

For $60 for the datsun rods are very cheap and I can't see them costing as much to machine as buying new rods from spool at $500.

Cheers,

Matt

 
I have a few engines around with the Spool rods, haven't been an issue to date at 8000rpm.  Biggest down side is they're heavy.
 
At $60 the datsun rods are cheap, but the machining them to make them fit will quickly add up, and I would suggest be far more than $500 by the time its all said and done, and it will mean a custom piston which is also expensive.
 
You will be far better off with a piston and rod package, and it will be a direct fit.
 
Msg "Mk1 Lotus" on this forum, I believe he has some CP piston and H beam rod packages available which will be more than ample for what you want to do, and in my opinion the cheapest option when factoring in machining etc, as they are a direct fit.  I believe they have a smaller pin to save weight, and a longer than std rod to improve the rod ratio, and the CP pistons are done to suit.
 
Cheers
Warren

Excellent,
 
Thanks Woz, it's a big learning curve trying to work the best of the many rod / piston combinations available.
 
What rods / pistons do you use and recommend for the club racer?
 
Cheers,
 
Matt

Matt75

Excellent,

Thanks Woz, it's a big learning curve trying to work the best of the many rod / piston combinations available.

What rods / pistons do you use and recommend for the club racer?

Cheers,

Matt

 
I have used a number of combos, Spools and SPS pistons, Argo's and SPS's, Eagles, depends on the budget.
 
As far as length and combo's are concerned there are many different opinions.  As with any engine, the key is to get the bits to work together.  The club race engines I do use a Cosworth length rod (slightly longer than std Pinto) and piston to suit.  That combo works with my cylinder head and cam, makes good numbers, and is reliable.
 
The piston and rod combo that I mentioned that "Mk1 Lotus" has above is good bang for buck , and bullet proof.  PM him and have a chat, but that's what I would recommend to do.
 
Cheers
Woz

Cheers Woz,
 
I have just sent him an email.
 
Cheers,
 
Matt