R16 Performance ??

[notoldnfat]

Ok, I ran into another roadster guy recently, he was telling me that alot of guys like to modify the R16 3 bolt...?!? Something about less drag on the rotating mass or?? Made no sense to me...but, am open minded. I guess the other point is there's more oil to go around..... Anyway, does anyone know anything about playing with the R16? In the way of head work and cams etc using a stock bottom end??

[spl310]

There are two camps on the 1600s. One likes the 3 main because there is less friction and the other likes the 5 main for the increased strength. Keep in mind that the changes to the oiling system for the 1600 were minimal when the block design changed from 3 main to 5 main. From what I have heard (not experienced myself) there have been more bearing failures due to lack of oil on the 5 mains than the 3 mains. To each their own.

On the heads and cams, the Bob Sharp manual for the 1600 gives some insight into improving the motor. There are some cam grinders that can cut a higher performance cam for the 1600 out there as well. You can also get a weber/mikuni/dellorto intake for the 1600 from Pierce Manifolds to improve breathing. It all depends on what you want to do.

So, did you give up on the H25?

[notoldnfat]

I haven't given up yet, I have placed alot of calls to salvages, sales departments etc and have had very little luck. I'm going to call Atlanta Lift Truck Salvage today. I'm still planning on an R16 rebuild for one of the cars as well.