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Auto Racing/Datsun 1600 (pushrod R engine)

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Expert: - 9/22/2009


Question
Any thoughts on getting compression ratio up to 13.5:1 for a full-race SCCA F-Prod engine?  Limited valve clearance seems to restrict dome shape, and convoluted dome kills flame spread.  Piston mfr. who might have explored this?  Cutting deck and counterboring combustion chamber with low dome pistons flowed well, but couldn't get more than 11.5:1.
Thanks for your thoughts!

Answer
Hi Zane:

I have no experience with that engine. The one I use is the l-16 overhead cam engine.  However check out JP Racing at <http://www.manufacturedirections.com/florida/tavares/568894-jim-higgs.html>

Jim Higgs, the proprietor, has years of experience with the "A" Series and builds them for several of my friends who race with us in Central Florida Region.  He also races them himself and quite successfully. I'm certain he has a background in the older 1600 pushrod motors as well.

Good luck !

Dan Liddy
Sarasota, Florida

Auto Racing

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Dan Liddy

Expertise

Anything concerning race cars, 20 years competition experience, Senior Competition Driver Instructor , car builder, mechanic, welding, fabrication, tuning , engine modifications, set up, suspension design. Specializing in Datsun/Nissan products. Please submit questions about RACE CARS ONLY. No street cars, no video game scenarios Thank you.

Experience

I have been racing for 20 years, I have been the Central Florida SCCA Regional Championship points for 5 years running, and won the championship in my class 2 times. During my first start in the 60's I won many solo awards and the State Championship Drags. I serve as a senior instructor for SCCA, and have taught in Mercedes AMG events at Daytona, and Dodge Viper Days at Sebring International. I have been in the thick of the competition for all of my career. At one time or another I have driven race cars at speeds nearing 195 MPH. It's quite a ride !

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