What to do is the engine/gear is brocken

[dkp_cobra]

Hi,
   
   I have a question: what do you do if the engine or gear box in your Ace, Aceca or Greyhound is broken in such a way that a repair is not possible (worst case scenario)?
   
   Is there a replacement? Can you use other engines? I saw a Aceca in USA with a Ford V8 but I had the impression that this community wasn't convinced from this "Cobra conversion", right?
   
   Best regards,
   
   Peter

[Robin A Woolmer]

If it is an original AC Weller engine, Buy a New one, they are available to order!
   Moss Gearboxes can be purchased & you can even fit new sets of gears at a cost.
   Bristol engines are difficult to find.

[Bob Smith]

My Ace is missing it's Bristol engine and now has a 1970 Ford 302. I would love to have the O.E. engine but at least it's driveable and very easy to buy replacement parts if ever needed.

[aex125]

Peter,
    I have been away for awhile and so am responding a bit late. AEX125 has a mild Ford 289 and I find driving it very pleasurable. It is certainly not original, but the low end torque coupled with the ease of maintenance makes the car very usable in all situations. That being said, AEX1078 still needs a heart and so I am interested in Robin's comment on new AC engines being available.
   Robin,
   How much will a new AC engine set me back (is there a web site with info) and do the new ones have any improvements for more power? I have been leaning towards a 2.6, but have not committed to that yet.
   Jay

[Robin A Woolmer]

Jay
   The lowest cost route is to find a Ford 2.6-6-cylinder, they are powerful but heavy, a Bristol engine will cost at least £10,000 to buy second hand & probably £20,000 + to bring it to a good working condition.
   A new AC Weller engine will cost  between £20,000- £ 25,000 for effectively a complete new engine.
   If you want more information visit 'www.ac-engine.com' where all the basic information is, i try not to use the Forum as a sales tool though!
   I am building a new engine with aluminium head, high lift cam & rockers this year to fit into an Ace Chassis & will then be able to give some performance information, i do expect this engine to be competetive however.
   Several of my blocks are doing well in competition mainly in Frazer Nash cars so far.
   
   If you want more information after visiting my web site please 'E' mail me.
   
   Robin

[pls01]

Just my opinion
   If the AC or Bristol engines were not available, I would consider the Buick/Olds aluminum V8.  It's a nice size at 215cu and can make 200-300 hp depending on tune.  It is light in keeping with the rest of the car.  It has fairly good parts availability and specialist following.
   
   It was also a "period" conversion.  As Bob Smith as found, his car had one of these engines.  With the right period speed parts and a well engineered installation, I think it is a better option than the cast iron Ford sixes and eights.
   
   All the conversions probably devalue the car and I'd just rather have the original engine. If it's unobtainable, the 215 could be an option.
   
   Peter

[aex125]

Robin,
   Thanks for the info, and it is good to see you continue to keep the AC fire burning I'll add it into the options for 1078.
   Peter,
   I have also thought about the Buick/Olds route especially since I work with a guy who has 2 complete 215 power trains and will let one go very cheap. However, since I have 2 cars powered by 289s and many spare parts (including an engine) that may still be an option. Also, with Pontiac and Chevy parts already populating the garage, I'm not sure if I can make room for Buick/Olds parts.
   Jay

[Roy Davies]

Peter.
   If you want to go down the route of geting an AC Engine re-built, I have a spare crankcase, crank shaft and most other bits to give you a good starting point.  I recently had an engine built for my Ace by Brian Taylor who, in my opinion, is probably the best AC engine man in the UK. He did a fantastic job on my engine.  At least that would maintain originality.  Worth a thought.
   Roy