More power - VX

[andybeta]

To those who've similar ambitions or who've already increased the VX engine power to 170/180bhp + corresponding torque, did you also uprate the suspension and brakes? The suspension and brakes on my HPE have all been replaced with standard spec struts, discs, calipers, hoses, pads, etc. Is the standard spec when performing well, going to be adequate for the increase in power of the engine?

Andybeta

[Hamish]

Interesting question this - and similar to some of my previous posts - which has serious ramifications :!:
Currently Mario my VX coupe is running standard brakes (albeit with Brembo replacement front discs) but I plan on fitting Goodrich hoses to improve things a bit. The trouble is that fairly hefty re-engineering needs to be done to fit something with more bite.... :roll: It is possible to fit Integrale front calipers on a custom fabricated carrier, but you'd have to be a dab hand or know someone who is to make these up. Bazza did this to a VX coupe in the past and it could be worth speaking to him if that's your thing. Mind you, you'd need 15inch wheels (ex-early Integrale or presumably Phase II Thema Turbo) to clear the calipers and discs. I'm not sure, but it might be possible to fit HF 4WD or early Integrale vented discs at the same time as the caliper conversion - but I don'y know if anyone has actually done it.
Having said that, my brakes are pretty good and will be better once the front calipers are rebuilt and the braided hoses go on. I imagine that the standard system will be OK, but nothing special, with 160-170 BHP. I'm told EBC pads are worthwhile and an email from Martin at www.partsforoldercars.co.uk suggests that they have Rossinni cross drilled and grooved front and rear discs available at a not unreasonable cost, I'd imagine they would help matters a tad :?:
As far as suspension goes you're pretty much sorted with the VX spec springs, although I'd look into a set of Bazzas anti-torque steer spacers (highly recommended but not cheap) and word on the grapevine is poly bushes could be coming the Beta way quite shortly :)
You didn't mention it, but I'd look into a slightly more meaningful Sachs (or similar :?: ) organic clutch to handle the extra ooomph.
Have fun :P

[andybeta]

Thanks Hamish I think I'll stick with the standard set up and perhaps put in some of the pads you recommend. In the meantime would you know of a lead susbtitute additive that I can put in the unleaded juice, not to increase power to but to take the place of the lead 8O and protect the engine?

Andybeta

[andybeta]

have just seen your reply to the additives you use elsewhere.
Thanks again.

Andybeta

[Hamish]

No worries Andy, keep us updated as things progress :!:

[chrisc]

My 84 vx hpe has upgraded front brakes (grooved discs on the front and fast road pads), and it feels a lot better once the pads are warmed up and braking from higher speeds, but i cant be totally certain of how it compares to the stock setup. My other one (stock) feels sharper in the pedal feel, but that could be because i very recently changed out the old brake fluid.

Incidental - 500 mile round trip completed in my 85 with no probs!