CVH engine owner seeking guidance

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ford_fiesta98
Junior
Posts: 45
Joined: Mon Apr 01, 2019 8:45 pm

I own a Reliant Scimitar SS1 with a carby 1.6 CVH engine, a type 9 gearbox, and a Sierra differential. I am looking to increase its power. What are my options? Turbo CVH components are expensive because of the "ford tax," thus I am considering opting for the 2.0 DOHC engine. Are the mounts/blocks comparable enough to fit without requiring custom engine mounts?
Thank you!
85KillallRU
Senior
Posts: 73
Joined: Mon Apr 05, 2021 9:28 pm

Have you considered the ST170 2-liter engine?
85KillallRU
Senior
Posts: 73
Joined: Mon Apr 05, 2021 9:28 pm

Retro Ford offers mounting kits.
ford_fiesta98
Junior
Posts: 45
Joined: Mon Apr 01, 2019 8:45 pm

I believe the mounts are different from Sierra, unless you are referring about kits for the SS1, which I doubt they provide.
Hunger_for_love
Senior
Posts: 75
Joined: Tue Mar 10, 2020 8:44 pm

I would choose the early Zetec. ST170 might be suitable, however to fully use its advantages, you would need the ECU or an aftermarket ECU, especially for the variable cam timing. Otherwise, I would choose the 2.0 Zetec engine with carburetors. The block was essentially an enhanced CVH block, leading to the creation of ZVH engines, which included using a CVH head on a Zetec bottom end, providing another potential alternative for you.
The Duratec, a 4-cylinder engine, might be considered since it has similarities with the Zetec engine but features a timing chain instead of a belt and an alloy block instead of cast iron.
ford_fiesta98
Junior
Posts: 45
Joined: Mon Apr 01, 2019 8:45 pm

Zetec mounts are not compatible, requiring construction for proper fitting, which I am unable to do due to a lack of welding skills.
Do Duratecs have the exhaust on the other side? Therefore, much more challenging.
I am looking for someone who has replaced a CVH with a DOHC engine to check whether it fits the existing CVH mounts.
Thank you!
ford_fiesta98
Junior
Posts: 45
Joined: Mon Apr 01, 2019 8:45 pm

Here is a foolish concept...
Are the engine mounts for the 1.8td the same as those for the CVH engine? (Whether it be from a P100/Sierra, Escort, or Mondeo)
Hunger_for_love
Senior
Posts: 75
Joined: Tue Mar 10, 2020 8:44 pm

Not from memory.
The SS1 likely features engine mounts that are exclusive to it because of its unusual build compared to the engine donor vehicle. Since the 1.6 CVH engine was exclusively installed in Fiesta or Escort/Orion bodyshells, the mounts are already tailored for the SS1. Therefore, I recommended engines that are derived from the CVH, as it is likely that the mounting locations are still integrated into the block. It might be feasible to drill and tap them to utilise your current mounts.
Are replacement components still in stock for this product? The SS1 model, along with the later SST and Sabre models, had the option of a CA18ET engine from the Nissan Bluebird turbo or a Rover K series (1.4) engine. This allows for easy conversion to these engines using readily accessible components. Otherwise, update what you have or have someone create mounts for you. The DOHC engines from a Sierra and similar models had a power rating of roughly 120bhp. On the other hand, the non-EFI 1.6i CVH engines seen in pre-89 XR3i/Orion 1.6i Ghias were rated at 110bhp as standard, an increase from the 90bhp of the carbureted engine. The CVH engines would be comparatively simpler to install. Installing a cam, a decently sized exhaust, and a lightened flywheel used to significantly improve the performance of Escorts/Orions in the past. Install higher quality valve springs to increase engine RPM, resulting in improved performance.
ford_fiesta98
Junior
Posts: 45
Joined: Mon Apr 01, 2019 8:45 pm

Thank you. Engine mounts are specific to each engine model. If the mounts in the Sierra with the (insert engine here) are the same as the CVH Sierra, then the SS1 mounts may be used.
My vehicle's engine placement differs somewhat from Turbo and K-series engines, and as mine was manufactured before the turbo ss1, those engines may not be compatible.
I received a quotation for engine mounts for a Zetec at £450, which did not include exhaust modifications or the adjustments required for installing the oil pump or water pump.
I have seen a few diesel kit vehicles, like as the twincharged pug XUD and the intercooled 1.8TD Mondeo, which inspired me.
ford_fiesta98
Junior
Posts: 45
Joined: Mon Apr 01, 2019 8:45 pm

Apologies for posting here, but I am unable to log in. I am looking for an 18th-century rear-wheel-drive vehicle. Oil suction tube. Any assistance is much appreciated.
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