Riley 4/72 V8 conversion

colc · October 30, 2013, 10:23:43 AM

Just bought a really nice Riley 4/72, with MGB engine and o/d box................however, it's crying out for some performance upgrades, and that's going to mean a V8. I'm also looking to change the entire front end [brakes / steering/suspension] possibly going to a narrowed Jag front clip. Engine possibly a Ford 302, with a Scimitar back axle, as they're about the same width, and should handle the power. Any comments or thoughts [has anyone done one before?] most welcome

BlownMGB-V8 · October 30, 2013, 11:55:00 AM

I'm not sure why you would want to go to something as heavy as a Jag front suspension, there have to be better choices out there. I scrapped out an XJ6 and didn't see anything in the front suspension I wanted to keep. But maybe the XK parts are lighter.

Jim

roverman · October 30, 2013, 02:51:38 PM

Colin, Welcome, if your in USA, you might consider Mustang II-aftermarket front suspension, including support cross member. All manor of widths available, spindles, A-arms and brake components. Because of high volume,(for aftermarket), prices are quite competitive=value. This topic is best discussed in "handling" section. Cheers, roverman.

colc · October 30, 2013, 03:12:36 PM

-- moved topic --

Moderator · October 30, 2013, 03:17:11 PM

Welcome to BritishV8, Colin!

I hope you'll post some photos. I'm keen to learn what a Riley 4/72 looks like.

colc · October 31, 2013, 06:12:44 AM

Mustang 2 front end has been discussed, however, will need narrowing , as Riley front track is only just over 50".

roverman · October 31, 2013, 11:47:08 AM

WOW, It's a little TC2000 Rover. Good Luck, roverman.

colc · November 01, 2013, 07:28:50 AM

It's actually longer than a P6, and although in production at the same time, at least a decade behind in terms of engineering, hence the need for mechanical upgrades

Graham B · November 01, 2013, 08:48:24 AM

Colin,

From the photo I take it you are in the UK.
In which case you may have seen the recent episode of Wheeler Dealers where Ed China worked on a Ford Pop hot rod. He swapped the front subframe and suspension for a narrowed Jag unit. I think he said it was from an XK. From what bit you saw on the program it looked quite simple to narrow the unit and he said it was relatively inexpensive to buy (?£200).

Cheers

Graham