I would like to learn about the experience of others who have already put in a newer, stronger engine. Not talking hotrod here, just something newer and stronger. Any help or comments will be appreciated.

Herb,
If you want to get a little more out of your existing engine,
check out this site http://www.esslingeracing.com/home.htm

NY Bob

Bob, thanks for this site. Still curious to learn about what has been done to put in a mild V6 or V8. Thanks again.

A mild V6 would work I would think.As to a V8 I believe you will have to upgrade as to strengthen the frame like boxing the rails.Don't really know about the rear end but the axle keys should be replaced with hardened ones
I'm sure there are some V8 conversions but I think if it was me I would pass.I have done a couple of V8 conversions re sunbeam alpines.One a 351 windsor that was warmed over.One a Ford racing 302.They involved much more than just sticking the V8 in
But back to the Pinto 4 cylinder.
First desmog the engine.Then some head mods.Turbo charging.MSD ignition This would light up the car for sure and being it is so light it will go.
I for one other than desmogging will leave my Shay as is
Chuck

Axle keys Chuck? Not in the Pinto rear end. Seriously, changing rear ends to get a higher gear ratio and minor engine mods (de-smogging, roller cam, headers, maybe electric fan instead of belt driven) give you all the oomph you need.

Bob

Hi Bob
Guess I'm was still thinking a hot 2.8 V6 of 200to 215HP or so in a Sunbeam alpine. The only way you can get by using a stock axle is to change the keys.I agree with a roller cam with a nice grind but just forgot to add that bit.If you want serious power from the 4 banger google Racer Walsh.At one time he sold a 400 HP 2 litre Ford engine.Cost was expensive but wouldn't that be a blast in a Shay.

Thanks for your good advice.

There are a lot of cheap mods available for the 2.3 Ford as it has been used in a sanctioned racing class. Saw a Formula 2300 at a Tempe Auto Show lst year and they claimed 400 plus HP.
Funny thing about Shays, they ride like a brick, the auto trans is faster than a 4 speed and the list goes on and on but we enjoy both of ours. They are really a FUN car.

Tom,

I'm also driving one of those bricks...

I recently tried to "soften" the ride but to no avail...New shocks all around as well as front coil springs...ZIP!!!

I sometimes feel like a "mad scientist" doing experiments all the time...Some successes, many failures!!!

Waiting to hear from a Mustang II Internet coil spring expert shop to see if there's a more "user friendly" application like a smaller coil diameter wire or a spring with "more bounce to the ounce".

Reggie

Reggie
I do believe there is a coil for a 1700 plus car.I did look at a site that listed them but I can't rememeber as its been some time.
If you here about a softer rated coil I for one will be anxious to hear about it.
Unbelivey nice weather.too bad the shay is hibernating already.
Chuck

Ray Hoffman gave me some info on front springs:
Eato Detroit Spring Inc. 313-963-6820
#1706 Mustang II front coil springs
He said the guy knows about the Shay, might be worth a call.

NY Bob

Chuck, Bob,

Thanks for the spring information.

I plan on re-doing my front coil springs in a couple months and will use your postings.

As previously posted, I'm not happy with the 1979 Pinto springs I bought from Rock Auto...Not enough "bounce".

Funny, I sent an e-mail to a Mustang II front end spring specialist on the Internet and have not heard back...Guess the company doesn't need the business???

Reggie

Thanks for your helpful comments.

Herb: If you crawl under the Shay and look at frame and chassis you will quickly see that frame, engine supports is not designed for weight and torque of a much bigger engine. Most of the ones that see modified are the ones that are For Sale.. Buy a HOT Rod magazine and see how much bigger and stronger the undercarriage is for Hot Rods!! THANKS.. Dave Shank

Point well-taken Dave. With 2 friends owning '32 3-windows,I understand your message here.