Engine weight

[bull]

caveat: I searched


What is the positives or negatives of the weight of the engine in wheeler that would be driven on pavement yet see 70% of it's time on the trail?

For example you have a 500lb engine and want to put a 800lb engine in its place?

 

[mminter1973]

It would definately depend on engine type BUT, I would say heavier engine = better ride comfort (just considering weight) more suspention travel because of weight, more traction, more broken birfields (really too many unknowns)
lighter engine = better throttle reponse (shorter stoke, lighter crankshaft, rods, etc...) less weight on front axle, etc...

really need more exact info to give better responces

 

[bull]

It would definately depend on engine type BUT, I would say heavier engine = better ride comfort (just considering weight) more suspention travel because of weight, more traction, more broken birfields (really too many unknowns)
lighter engine = better throttle reponse (shorter stoke, lighter crankshaft, rods, etc...) less weight on front axle, etc...

really need more exact info to give better responces

Thanks. When I read about engine swaps etc. The replies you see are. "That engine is too heavy" with no data to back it up. Trying to find some real world data or experience from members.

I know it is a vague question.


Common sense things like affects drivetrain stress and suspension stress. I understand, I'm just curious if it affects anything else?

 

[71-CRUISER]

An average cast iron small block weighs about 600 lbs

A stock Toyota streight 6 weighs about 800 lbs.

Depending on what you are building it would be hard to find an engine that weighs more than a stock Cruiser engine. That being said a Big Block or a big V8 diesel may weigh more though.

 

[bull]

I appreciate the reply. I would be replacing a 2H engine which is 800lbs or so. I was just pulling numbers out my ass for an example. I was just curious if anyone had thoughts of going heavier in the engine department affected anything major.

 

[yotawheeler]

i think where most people get going is when guys are thinking of putting a cummins in their trucks...the engine weight a couple hundred pounds more (about 300 i think) and iv heard arguments about how its going to make it dangerous for braking, handling, steering bla bla bla....i dont agree at all. really 300lbs is nothing, its the differenece between me or my grandfather driving. yea, i dont think engine weight is much of an issue...horse power and torque are going to be what you want to consider

 

[bustanutley]

Lighter is always better, ALWAYS. Distribution is a different can of worms.

 

[TBIFJ40]

I drive a V-8 FJ40, buddy has the stock 2f....Many times that heavy 6 in the front helps keep his front end planted and gives him better traction. But I can get to the trail faster than he can.

 

[bull]

Lighter is always better, ALWAYS. Distribution is a different can of worms.

Why is it better? Not arguing.. I honestly would like to know why lighter is better?

 

[bustanutley]

COG
Easier on parts
Climb mo better

The only reason you would want the truck to be heavy is if you were doing tractor pull with it, for a wheeling truck, lighter is better.