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Converting a libra 1.4 to 1.8vvc
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Author:  Matty H [ Tue Feb 10, 2009 5:31 pm ]
Post subject:  Converting a libra 1.4 to 1.8vvc
I have recently purchased a GTM Libra fitted with 1.4 K series engine i intend to fit a 1.8vvc and PG1 gearbox from a MGF 143bhp. Does anyone know what will need to be changed.I intend to have the head gasket, water pump and timing belts done before fitting is it also a good idea to fit a remote thermostat and 56mm throttle body.is the freelander spec head gasket the best one to go for ?
Author:  Juls [ Wed Feb 11, 2009 10:43 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Converting a libra 1.4 to 1.8vvc
Wow 2 posts in the Libra section on the same day :D
Hi Matty,
Here are some items that spring to mind but is no way conclusive :oops:

Matching ECU, 5AS and Plipers
MPI fuel pump (if SPI pump fitted)
The engine steady bar is different on the PG1

I'm sure everyone else will add more. :wink:
Juls
Author:  Tim Rowe (1130) [ Wed Feb 11, 2009 10:59 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Converting a libra 1.4 to 1.8vvc
Changing the thermostat is a good one, as it stops the engine from being thermally shocked. There is a load of info on the K series engine. http://www.sandsmuseum.com/cars/elise/t ... kingk.html is worth a read
Author:  Pantera2075 [ Wed Feb 11, 2009 5:11 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Converting a libra 1.4 to 1.8vvc
Humour me a minute.....

K series also fitted in Lotus Elise. :?
Elise is virtually the same as an Exige. :D
Exige has Toyota 2ZZ-GE engine. :shock:

I know what i'd be looking at. :mrgreen:
Author:  Matty H [ Wed Feb 11, 2009 5:22 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Converting a libra 1.4 to 1.8vvc
Thannks for the info have got a 2000 MGF as donor just got to get engine out and I am having work done to it before I fit it into the libra.
Author:  Pantera2075 [ Wed Feb 11, 2009 5:34 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Converting a libra 1.4 to 1.8vvc
It was worth a punt :D

I'm not massively clued up with K-series motors, but i'd definitely look at changing the plastic head dowels for brass ones - if indeed the vvc has plastic ones.
Author:  Don Stephenson [ Wed Feb 11, 2009 5:46 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Converting a libra 1.4 to 1.8vvc
Hi Matty,
To add to Juls list,
I think the gear box mount has to change.
With the extra power, you will need a second engine steady on the other side of the engine.
The gear change mechanism will need changing. Possibly rods to cable.

A reads of the Sands Museum report is a good ides. It seems that they found that the main causes of the Rover engine failures was the ammount of non Rover performance parts built into the engine.
Author:  lyndiloo [ Wed Feb 11, 2009 6:48 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Converting a libra 1.4 to 1.8vvc
The head gasket failures are due to a number of issues, thermal shock form the cold/hot water (thermostat), plastic locating dowels and the single metal gasket with what appears instant gasket sealer around all the openings. Landrover gasket is the way to go, this consists of a head shim that "glues" itself to the head, plus a multi plate steel gasket and metal dowel pins, Landrover also fitted a lower oil rail that supposedly helps stop the block flexing and if I was doing what you are then I would get one of those as well and fit that.
Add new bolts a very mild skim (only if necessary) new water pump, the thermostat you are on about and that should sort you out for many a mile.
Guess who has just had to do one on their wifes mgf :x
Not seen the site above but the MG owners have a lot of info as well as a step by step guide of how to do it and what to look out for.
Author:  roger [ Thu Mar 12, 2009 12:42 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Converting a libra 1.4 to 1.8vvc
Don't use the 56mm throttle body. It doesn't fit as standard and has been proven to be too big. The alloy 52mm one is an improvement though. Even if it's just to stop the plastic one from sticking.
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