Current players:

Chevy LSX
www.v8roadsters.com - sold and installed direct and though www.flyinmiata.com, and www.949racing.com

http://www.bossfrog.biz/Miata_V8_Swap.html

Ford 5.0
http://www.monstermiata.com/ - run by the guy who used to work at monstermiata before the owner got thrown in the can for offing his wife.

 

I'm curious at to why FM and 949 have both elected to use the V8R kit versus the Boss Frog kit. At this point I think I'm going to go with the Boss Frog engine mount so that I can use my batwing oil pan.

Michael

 

Check out Nathan's (npartist) review. He has installed all 3, including the defunct racingconcepts and gives the V8R kit the nod.

http://www.swaptastic.net/answers.html

The original V8R kit moved the motor back and was best for weight distribution. It's more work, but it's the best way to do it.

I heard a rumor that Bossfrog bought an early V8R kit and then soon after had their own kit out.

I am biased as I used the v8R kit and every hole of both the front subframe and rear mounting lined up perfectly.

Frank

 

So what you are saying is doing a V8 miata swap may cause you to kill your wife? Ut oh.

 

Its a VERY long story, I think it even became a Lifetime movie or something at some point.

Martin is more than just the "guy who took over." I actually visited him in San Marcos last week and had the chance to tour his shop and hang out with him for an afternoon. He's responsible for the majority if not all the engineering in his kit. The entire 7.5 inch rear end thing was entirely him.

The coolest part of the visit was talking about the direction he intends to go with his LSx version of his kit. He's very excited about it. I'm not sure how much he wants me to divulge but I can say he's planning a very different approach regarding the front subframe than any of the kits now available, including his 5.0 kit, have used. When it eventually is done it will be amazing. I advised him that he needs to get it done soon.

He also showed me a completely custom spring that he designed with Eibach just for his cars and literally a "pile" of custom 7.5 axles ready to go in to cars. He also introduced me to the local brew of San Marcos, something called "Arrogant Bastard". It's a bit heavy for a ale but, as I'm a Guinness man myself, I thought it pretty good.
Here's a link:

http://www.arrogantbastard.com/



-Jason

 

I wasn't very impressed with Boss Frog's quality and fit. I had to struggle with most of the parts to get them installed and several items were designed poorly IMHO. The V8R kit is not perfect but its better and therefore I choose it over BF.

 

The only issue I had with the V8R kit was getting the lower A-arms installed. Could be from the poly bushings though. Also could not get the lower bolts on the steering rack to thread in, but a set of grade 8 course bolts went right in with nuts on the backside (prefer this method anyway since they are easy to reach) The kit they send is a work of art!

 

The Boss Frog parts were not available when we started dealing with V8 conversions, but there have been no regrets here. We're very happy with the quality of the V8R components.

It's not a bad idea to chase any threads with a tap if the part's been powdercoated. Not just in the subframes, but as a general rule. Makes life a lot easier.

 

I can't think of anything that went wrong with the V8R install on my '94. Everything lined up perfectly. Just be sure to scuff the paint away from the areas where the alignment eccentric bolts go. As much as I've tightened the nuts after doing alignments, they always slip out of spec and I have to redo the alignment. After scuffing it I haven't had the problem again.

No regrets here. I've seen the BF kit up close and the only part i wouldn't like is the rear differential mount. leaves absolutely no room to route the exhaust.

d

 

The good side is the bolts not threading in was the most I had to cuss at when it came to installing the K-member (if I'd had a good tap/die set, it wouldn't of been an issue)/ Now getting the engine set in from the top for mock-up was another story. Talk about a shoehorn fit! Now that I know it'll fit, the next time it goes in, the car will be set onto it to keep from scratching the fresh paint on the bulkhead (firewall).

 

I think the V8R will be the route I take, the BF stuff from what I have read and seen doesn't seem to quite be on the same level. I think the price was slightly higher too.

 

For those in Georgia, I'm stocking complete NA and NB kits. Save shipping and come pick up! Our website V8Atlanta.com isn't setup yet. Our existing business is 4Sevens.com

 

There arent any kits for the Gen 1 350 right?

 

All SBC have the same engine mounting points. Minor differences in the block may make accessores/headers/etc harder or easier. General consensus is why do a Gen I when you can do a Gen III+. Lighter and more power.

 

to save 300 on the cheapest part of the swap

 

Well im in sweden and all the Gen III engines make too much power for registration

 

http://forum.miata.net/vb/showthread.php?t=345272

 

Seems cool, but it lacks two cylinders. The thing is, the Gen 1 is going in for reg. and then ill swap it for a Gen 3 or 4. But thanks anyway

 

There is no kit for a sb Chevy. All of us that have done it have built our own kits.