mgb 302conversion

[302BMC]

Hello, I'm new here.  Name's Brian.  I've got a '78B and I'm going to use a '97 302HO for my project.  I've got one of Ted Laythrop's front ends and upon initial mockup of the block it seems too tight.  The cast accessory mounting point on the right side of the block rubs against the chassis.  This can't be right.  What am I missing?  I know this is a pretty common conversion.  Any suggestions?  Thanks.
PS- I attended the meet in Terre Haute, IN some years ago armed with my video camera and notebook.  I had a blast and plan on being there this year, again, in IN.  Slowly working my way back out to the garage.

[mowog1]

Hey Brian!  I remember you from Terre Haute!  See you in Indy!

[ex-tyke]

Hello again Brian...I remember your participation at the Terre Haute British V8 show.
 Under normal/centred engine positioning, that mounting lug shouldn't hit the right frame.....there should be about 1/4"-3/8" clearance. It may be (I'm just speculating) that Ted has biased the engine mounts to the right to accomodate the oil filter adapter on the left. If you don't plan on using the lug, there's no reason that it can't be removed.
It'll be interesting to see if Pete Mantell or others with Ted's front xmbr chime in with comments.

[302BMC]

Hi Rick, Hi Graham!  I remember you both.  Thanks for the reply.  Yea, wiping off the lug seems like the way to go vs altering the chassis.  As long as I know this block will fit I will go ahead with a build-up.  Thanks again.

[smelfi]

Brian,
You're not alone on the lug issue. I'm in the process of doing a 77 302. Up until a week or so ago that lug on mine was about a 1/4" up from the frame rail at a 45 degree angle. I've since lowered the engine about 3/8" and now the bottom of the lug is about 1/16" below the top of the rail and about a 1/8" away from the rail. I currently plan to grind some of the lug off.

Steve

[302V8]

Hi Brian,

Yes trim off the cast accessory lug. I've had to cut them all off on all of the 302 conversions I've done.
You can just make out the accessory stub on this picture.
http://www.mantellmotorsport.com/ShowImage.aspx?pid=332

Good luck with your conversion.
If you need any conversion parts, like short neck water pump & pulleys etc. email or call.

See you in Indy.

Cheers
Pete

http://www.mantellmotorsport.com

[kstevusa]

Yes! That appears to be the Lug I removed with my sawsall. Ground the block smooth and painted it when I built re-installed the heads.  I saw no good use for it, except for being in the way.  
SAFETY FASTER!

[classic conversions]

While cutting the lug, keep cutting and remove two cylinders  it will fit better.   :-)LOL

[302BMC]

Thanks everybody.  That's that then.  The lug's gotta go.
Pete, I also remember you from Terre Haute.  It seems you've been busy.  Great looking website and shop.  Nice and clean...