[CamB]

I'll have a crack at the anwers (not that I know)...

I was just wondering if anyone out there has put an early turbo engine w/o intercooler into an early car?

Err, not personally! A couple of guys have done is into a slightly later car though (late 70s). Ummm, can't remember the guys' names. Sorry. Oh, RarlyL8 did it to an SC (not that it looks like an SC).

- What would the major obstacles be in doing so?

The intercooler. Making sure you had all the ancilliaries from the Turbo engine (all CIS bits, etc). 65% rear weight bias (at a guess). Mating turbo to 901.

- Would I need to use the turbo 4-spd to replace my 901 transaxle?

I don't think so - the 901 can be used but you need some custom bits which aren't too hard (flywheel?) . Plenty of people (with 914s) have attached SC and Carrera engines to a 901. The 901 won't last that long if you abuse it though.

- Can a later turbo engine be used w/o the intercooler? (want to keep an early decklid)

I wouldn't do it. Instead, you might be able to put the intercooler somewhere else? I dunno. I am REALLY guessing now. By the way, this would be my main concern (the intercooler/decklid issue). I like skinny early cars.

- Is this just crazy? - better off with a 3.2/3.6?

Probably. Depends on your goals!!!!! Even "only" 210 or hp from a 3.2 is HEAPS in an early car.

- I looked in the archives but didn't find anything about this one (probably missed it)

Haha, not surprised.