<VV> Engines, torque, and bog

[Padgett]

>Try the same thing from idle with the clutch already
>released and it's not going to like it one bit.

Lot depends on how it is cammed how much power you will have and the carbs 
whether it will bog. Corvair is a relatively short stroke engine so is not 
going to be a torque engine but that does not mean it cannot pull strongly 
from low rpm. Consider the 2.8 in a Fiero (about the same weight as a 
Corvair believe it or not). 89x76 mm. 164 Corvair is 87x75mm not a whole 
lot of difference. Both around 8.5:1 compression.

Fiero 2.8 with manual trans & good valve springs will pull smoothly from 
1500 rpm to 5500. Is a function of FI with port injection and cam. (I 
*really* do not like TBI).

Not certain over 30 mpg would be as easy with a Corvair as a Fiero, is a 
drag issue, but should be able to get close.

Indy engines use big venturis on individual runners and are focused on max 
power at high rpm. I like a broad torque range (HP determines top speed but 
torque is what gets you there) and a 2,000 rpm Interstate cruise (and in 
Florida, Interstates are 70 mph most places).

As far as the combustion chamber is concerned, "an engine does not care 
whose name is on the valve covers" and things like V-6 vs flat and 
water-cooled vs air really do not matter (though a flat six is easier to 
balance) .

Bog is usually a function of ldelay between increased fuel flow and demand 
with a carb (why they have accelerator pumps). With digital FI mixture 
change is instant.

So while things like VVT are clearly beyond the scope of a Corvair, digital 
FI from an 80's GM car (would grab from a 2.8 Fiero for wiring and computer 
location) is very possible (and may even be cheap). Surely someone has been 
working in this area. Heck I have a couple of 3800 manifolds with rails and 
injectors sitting in the back garage but may be a bit of overkill.

Anyone out there tried it ?

Padgett