20v in a 4000q

["Gerry Snow" <gsnow@iea.com>]

Dear Audifans,

I've searched the archives and found a few previous postings about a 20v 5
cyl in a 4000q.  Most of these seemed to have dealt with the turbo engine,
and the discussions were mainly regarding the 10v versus 20v choice.  I have
an '84 4000 q, with nearly 200k.  The car has been very well maintained, and
is in generally excellent condition.  It has mild upgrades here and there
(Stebro stainless exhaust, 15 x 7.5 Ronals, H&R Springs, TurboGas shocks,
Brembo cross-drilled rotors, Mintex pads).  The engine however is getting a
bit tired.  I plan to keep the car several more years and I have recently
done some track time with it, and plan to do more schools and track days.  I
have considered a turbo engine replacement, and a 20v naturally aspirated.
The 10v or 20v turbo sounds great, but I understand there may be quite a lot
of custom ducting, heat shielding, and bracket work for the installation in
this car.  And then, I've heard about various problems with reliability.
The 20v naturally aspirated appears to be more of a "bolt-in", with some
custom work, but not as significant as the turbo.  The cost differential is
significant as well, with the naturally aspirated version somewhat less
expensive (installed) than either of the turbo options (installed).

My goal is to get a reliable engine installation, perhaps with additional
mods to push the horsepower close to 200 bhp (+/-).  I would like to do this
without spending a ton of money (I can define this further if anyone wishes
to pick up this thread).  I think the car handles extremely well, especially
with the suspension mods.  At the race track on club days and lapping days,
it is interesting to see how it can out corner many performance sedans and
coupes, but is essentially blown away on the straights.  If I could just
bring the straight line acceleration and top speed up to par with the
handling and brakes, I would be happy.

I am also considering doing the engine swap myself, versus having a
specialist do it.  I would like to hear the comments/experiences of the
listees.  If anyone is aware of any web sites, archives, or other resources
where this type of engine swap is addressed, I would like hear about it.
Thanks everyone!

Best Regards,
Gerry Snow
Spokane, Washington, USA
84 4kq
67 Lotus Elan S3 SE