Engine set-back

[Al Keller]

Have any of you done engine relocations that required rework of the firewall? What problems did you run into?

I'm going to build a full 2x3 frame and 12-point cage. The suspension is from a C4 Corvette. If I use the Corvette front cross member (which I'd like to do so I don't have to reinvent the geometry for the suspension and steering pick-up points), I think the rear sump Ford oil pan and pulleys will hit the cross member and steering rack (I'm trying to keep the crank center line about 12"-13" off the ground with 26" tires).

I wanted to save the transmission tunnel (for structural strength), save the engine compartment sheet metal (to hold the fenders, etc on), replace the rusty floor pans and rear sheet metal over the fuel cell. Cutting "everything" out might make more sense but scares the hell out of me because I have to put something back in there that works and looks good!

I'm trying to think of everything before I "cut metal". And we all know how successful that will be - active fantasy life.