Re: urq with 2bennett mc triumphant return... and...

["Ken Keith" <auditude@neta.com>]

Tom,

When doing MC conversions, (at least some of the time) 2Bennett 
cuts out the front of the core support.  Everything between the 
fenders goes away.  Then this is replaced by a handmade welded 
aluminum core support that is removable.

I don't know if they do it every time, but I've seen one car that had it 
done (formerly Duane Hale's EC featured 4kcstq).  It is a very 
custom mod, and IMO has it's benefits and drawbacks.

I've always been curious about how the aluminum unit deals with 
and effects chassis flex.  The aluminum is relatively unyielding (to 
the point of cracking instead of flexing.  Since it's bolted on, I would 
imagine there is either alot of stress being put on the new core 
support, or it's mounting points.  (I remember seeing on either 
Duane's car, or on another core support at Tim Valencia's garage, 
that at least one of the "braces" of the new support was no longer 
welded where it once was.  Maybe no big deal, but the memory 
remains.)

I know stiffer is better, so this may be a good thing.

If I ever get to putting a turbo motor in my 4ksq, I will make efforts 
to retain the stock core support.  I like the way the hood closes, 
and the way everything fits.

If I had a race car, and quick access to the front of the car would 
be a benefit, I'd probably consider the removable support.

I could just imagine a timing belt job with the whole front of the car 
sitting next to you instead of being in the way.  It has it's benefits!

As far as intercoolers, I think you may be able to find an 
appropriately-sized unit from one of the Diamond-Star cars, if not 
an Eclipse/Talon, then perhaps a Starion/Conquest/etc.

Ken

Thomas Barbera <tjbst39+@pitt.edu> wrote:
> 
> 	When you say custom core supports, what exactly are you referring to?  I 
> can't quite figure out what they mean.  I e-mailed 2bennett about it and 
> they didn't tell me much other than they only sell that for their own 
> installations and it requires some supports to be welded to the body.  How 
> much cutting is involved for this custom part?    Any advice would be 
> greatly appreciated.  The only thing 2bennett will sell me is a custom tie 
> rod and an intercooler.  I am going to purchase the tie rod, but I think 
> I'll make the MC intercooler fit somehow in order to reduce cost.  Any 
> advice would be greatly appreciated.
> 
> 
> Tom B.
> '86 4kq (soon to be 4ktq)
> '87 5ktqw (donor)
>