Opinions on engine choice - 71E Targa
 

I've been posting the restoration progress on my 'barn find' '71E Targa. Last few weeks have been focused on disassembly and body prep, so now I'm starting to think about engine choice and I thought I'd solicit opinions from you all on this hugely important issue. Some folks have already made suggestions, but now I have some more info to share on the original motor, which came in classic basketcase form.

It's a #'s matching E motor (6210364, 3R case), but it is missing the complete valve train (cam towers, etc.) and most of the MFI bits. (The PO told me his brother's friend scavanged the motor for his T project...:mad:). Crank does turn smoothly by hand, which is a plus. Here's some pics of everything I have:

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1252102278.jpg
http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1252102329.jpg
http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1252102365.jpg

I suppose options are:

- rebuild the original 2.2, probably tweaked to 2.4 high compression while I'm at it.
- transplant 3.0 or 3.2.
- transplant another period correct motor

I want a fun car to drive mainly on the street (at 7000' altitude) with maybe a DE event here or there. Money / value is a consideration since I already need to throw a good chunk of $ at the rest of the project. Also, I need a trans too, but the car already has shift tower and linkages for a 915.

Oh, and last point, I'd have to pay someone to do a rebuild...well, outside my skill set. What do you all think?

Looks pretty rough. Most of it can be reconditioned I am sure... but... You may be better off buying someone's running E engine and then tearing it all down to swap cases so you can keep your numbers matching... if that is a big concern for you. Looks like a lot of the parts are missing... like the MFI pump :) as you noted

If not, find a nice 3.0/3.2 and sell your parts as scrap rebuilds to fund your 3.0/3.2 swap. The 3.2 will give you better drivability in the mountains where your altitudes will be changing by large amounts.

Best regards,

Michael