Scimitar SS1 Engine

[simoncrowe]

I have always been a fan of the SS1 ever since a friend of mine had one. I am now looking to purchase one but was wondering if an RS turbo engine will fit into the 1600 engine bay. Has this been done before?

[tr7v8]

It should do there is a fair amount of space. I believe that it has been done in the past. The area that is very very tight is at the b lock which disappears under the bulkhead. Changing a thermostat or otter switch with the engine in the car was almost impossible.

[CNHSS1]

the RS Turbo inlet manifold wont fit without bulkhead surgery and also possibly moving the servo (big job as it fixes thru to the pedal box). These reasons were why reliant never used the RST motor when they wanted to produce a more powerful version of the CVH 1600s and went for the Nissan 1800 turbo motor instead.
Phil Howard (scim club chairman) has played with many variants of the CVH efi setups, and will advise which bits can and cant be used. Hes also built ZVH and zetec variants too. The club website has his contact details

[jazzyjeff]

I recall Robin Rew also did a turbo installation on the 1600. Not sure if there's any information on the net

Alternatively, you could always carry out the Nissan conversion...

[CNHSS1]

Robin Rews conversions were dubbed Roosters, Phil Howard, scim club chairman, is the expert and owns a couple. His site ss1turbo.com has some details and his contact info