Different Rover V8s

Author
Discussion

Brm Brm

Original Poster:

217 posts

281 months

Sunday 11th May 2003
quotequote all
My 420 SEAC has a pre-serpentine in a fairly high state of tune but is starting to feel (and sound)its 57k. (on any other engine I'd be looking for a tappet to adjust but of course these are hydraulic and I can only hear it from inside the car not with the bonnet up - worn cam follower???.

Question is what to replace it with or whether its worth rebuilding. I will want at least the same power (300 plus) but more torque say 320/330. Before I start investigating it would be useful to know what if anything I could use off the old engine if, for example I wanted to go for a modern cross-bolted (serpentine) block eg. existing heads/carbon plenum etc. I note that people like JE only want later engines in exchange for their own products and assume mine doesnt count. Any advice appreciated (I know it wont be cheap!)

danny hoffman

1,617 posts

269 months

Sunday 11th May 2003
quotequote all
If it's done 57k and is on the original camshaft it is probably well due a replacement. However I can't see any reason that much else would need replacing if it has been looked after - unless you are determined to get a Serp engine.

I would do a dry & wet compression test, and possibly a leak down test to confirm the condition before making a drastic decisions.

If you do decide to bin the old lump - I may be interested in it as a winter rebuild project - to drop into the 350.

Danny

2 sheds

2,529 posts

291 months

Monday 12th May 2003
quotequote all
Brm Brm, can't remember the mileage on it when i sold, but at 45K the engine was stripped and checked and even the cam was as new, i guess its very possible that the cam has since expired, they go very quickly once wear has set in.
i would have this checked first as you may be 50 bhp down if the cam has gone.
to replace for a new engine to SEAC spec would be around £10,000.
most go for stage 3 4.6 because they offer good value, i would be inclined to work on excisting engine if poss, if you do change the engine i might be interested in buying yours.
Tim

>> Edited by 2 sheds on Monday 12th May 10:39

shpub

8,507 posts

279 months

Monday 12th May 2003
quotequote all
Look at the 520 story on the www.t-v-r-services.co.uk

Best thing is to sell your engine on as is and drop a new one in. Be warned that many things will need changing as the Serp engine has different fittings and pipework in the work place. If you are going to extract more power and torque, the transmission definitely needs looking at as well.

THis whole process is incredibly expensive so as Time says it might be better to give your current engine some TLC.

Steve

>> Edited by shpub on Monday 12th May 10:44

v8 racing

2,064 posts

258 months

Monday 19th May 2003
quotequote all
The cam is gone buddy thats all either replace it with the original 234 or go for the p404 i have to say the later is more driveable with the same bhp at the top erm guess that settles which one then!!!

rev-erend

21,536 posts

291 months

Tuesday 20th May 2003
quotequote all
Nice web site Rob (V8)- does the 404 cam need
solid lifters..?