1600 race engine questions--max rpm?

[jrclem]

We used to watch (feel) for the "thump-of-death" in the RHD GTAs... if you had a sensitive right foot you could feel the throttle linkage feed back as the engine twisted on its mounts just as the rod bearing was starting to seize... an INSTANT clutch & ignition cut off would save the block, and even the crank of you were quick enough... I'm not sure that the LHD linkage is direct enough to give you that tiny window of opportunity...

[Gordon Raymond]

That's scary Rick, but I can sure believe it, as I've felt more than one 1600 either stiffen up or go flat, adequately telegraphing an eminent failure. Fortunately I was young and sensitive enough to shut them down before destruction. I did miss one, a single plug that had a #3 piston come apart. That was quick! My GTA engine has had a happy life with me for the last 40 + years, but then, we have grown old together.

[pinshaw]

Nothing feels worse than that aww **** moment when you have lost the engine. I agree with all, race cars need race parts, preferrably assembled by a race engine builder, by hand, spec'd for racing. Far as Richards cams, sold, just added a set to my 63 spider, replacing the autodelta cams. Video should be on YouTube shortly, search Wine country classic 2008. Good video of a GTA running as well, his has sound, mine, well just turn the sound off. If Richard is till chiming in and wants to know how they worked, led 8 of 10 laps against two pro drivers--one in a SWB, the other in a Porsche ( I know, Porsches don't really count, but was making me sweat anyway) Fun times.

[Subtle]

V. nice pics of your grey Spider and the SWB.