Geo Metro diesel...

bhtooefr · December 10th, 2006, 17:40

OK, I've already posted this to TeamSwift and The Car Lounge (related to the Whoretex)...

Here's the deal. 40 MPG isn't enough. Heck, 50 or 60 MPG isn't enough.

Give me 80 or 90 MPG.

Unfortunately, the Lupo 3L TDI isn't available in the US. And, even if it was, I wouldn't be able to afford it.

So, I have to make my own.

What car did we have in the US that was known for being lightweight, relatively aerodynamic, and super fuel efficient?

I've actually looked up the specs... A stock Geo Metro is slightly worse when it comes to aerodynamics than a Lupo 3L TDI, but it weighs 200 pounds less.

So... that leaves an engine. Which engine, is the question...

I'm thinking Kubota D950. And there's a reason. I've got four of them, three are in non-running tractors, and one is in a derelict wreck that'll never be usable and has very little useful parts.

http://media.putfile.com/Kubota-D950-Startup <-- video of the running D950 starting... yes, that's a lot of smoke. I suspect that that engine needs a reringing.

So, today I've been fighting with the engine in the derelict chassis. Got oil, got coolant, got some fresh fuel and additivized (hasn't been run in roughly 2 years), and threw a battery on. Tried to crank and... nothing.

Turns out, the ignition switch was busted, so I got 12V to the starter, and all that jazz. After various attempts at getting more juice to it, I finally got it turning. Got tiny puffs of grey smoke, but no fire.

Anyway, that's not what this thread is about. That's a minor issue.

I need to know if anyone can recommend companies that can make a custom adapter plate, engine mounts, and other necessary stuff to connect this engine to a Suzuki tranny.

It uses a SAE #5 bellhousing, FWIW...

ICNTDRV · December 10th, 2006, 18:01

With a little lip spoiler coming off the roof of the Metro to level off the slant of the rear window you could probably achieve better aerodynamics than the Lupo

bhtooefr · December 10th, 2006, 18:18

http://www.metrompg.com/posts/boat-tail-prototype.htm

Like that?

michigandon · December 10th, 2006, 19:25

You could always use a 10HP Changfa instead:

http://www.utterpower.com/10hp_chevy.htm

Don

bhtooefr · December 10th, 2006, 19:26

Yeah, I know about that.

I'd like to not TOTALLY get run over.

DPM · December 11th, 2006, 01:14

First and most important question: It *does* turn the right way?

TurbinePower · December 11th, 2006, 01:59

Wonder if I could Kammback my Quantum wagon...

I seem to recall hearing/reading somewhere that a 15 degree incline on the back is optimal?

bhtooefr · December 11th, 2006, 03:35

DPM, yes. Kubota engines turn CCW when viewed from the flywheel, Zuk trannies turn CW when viewed from the input shaft. Therefore, they turn the same way.

Also, that picture of a Geo I used was of a similar Geo to this project, which has a Kubota diesel mated to a Suzuki trans.

(For those that don't know, the Geo Metro is a rebadged Suzuki.

)

therabbittree · December 11th, 2006, 08:58

do a 1.4 or 1.2 L tdi ..ecode parts off of vortex has complete with ecu and wiring swaps for $2000 or less.. I would go that route.
Later,
Deo

DPM · December 11th, 2006, 09:32

There's plenty other small diesel combos that would be easily available this side of the Pond that could be used- the 1.4/ 1.5 Peugeot TUD might be non-turbo and IDI but it's a rugged little bugger and would drop into place easily...

The new Swift comes in a diesel variant (and a lovely little car it is too, looks VERY like a New Mini) but there are no diesel listed in any territory for the previous Swifts.

bhtooefr · December 11th, 2006, 09:43

Before anyone suggests things like 1.2TDIs (dammit, I'm salivating), realize that I'd STILL have to get the adapter plate and custom mounts. (That said, they're widely available, thanks to the Samurai people...)

I already have the Kubota engines, plus parts.

nicklockard · December 11th, 2006, 10:50

Go with the Kubota. Figure out a way to put a turbo to it though

bhtooefr · December 11th, 2006, 10:52

Well, on some other Kubota 3-cyl diesels, they have turbos.

So, I may graft one on, but I'll have to look at the service manuals for those engines, to see if they're adding oil squirters or anything.

I'd do this ECOdiesel style - use the turbo to clean up the exhaust and get a touch more power.

nicklockard · December 11th, 2006, 11:25

Quote:

Originally Posted by bhtooefr

Well, on some other Kubota 3-cyl diesels, they have turbos.

So, I may graft one on, but I'll have to look at the service manuals for those engines, to see if they're adding oil squirters or anything.

I'd do this ECOdiesel style - use the turbo to clean up the exhaust and get a touch more power.

Heck, you can pick up an intercooler from someone upgrading to a FMIC here for practically nothing. If you do fit a turbo, fit an intercooler as well.

BTW: cool project. While you're at it, are you going to clean up the aero then? I think 80 mpg is very achievable with the correct driving style. Also, look to gut weight wherever you can (i.e. get rid of stock fuel tank and replace with something lighter, mufflerecto-mize it, etcetera...)

GaGolfSup · December 11th, 2006, 11:29

Keep us updated. Is there emissions testing in Ohio, or can you get an exemption for a hobby car? Here we don't have to have diesels tested, but the car has to have a VIN matching a diesel VIN.