Vega Build, Engine Setback?
 

It's a drag car that'll have a 383 and Glide so before I nail it down should I set it back? If so, how far? I just bought the car and never driven it but I'm concerned about handling issues, it would be a lot easier to leave the engine where it is. Maybe I'm worrying about nothing but I would like some input. Thanks

I don't have my Vega anymore, but I set the engine back so it sat about the same position as the engine in a 67 Camaro I had. There was no firewall when I got it so it was no big problem. It had a V8 kit that came with the body, but It looked too nose heavy to me. I'll try to find some pics.

Depends on what you're going to do with it . . . Although I haven't built a gasser or other door car for over 40 years, NHRA still has some rules pertaining to engine setback for certain classes.

You'd probably be better off reading the rule book pertaining to the class(es) you want to run. As an example, I think (Don't hold me to it) S/G has a 10% (of the wheelbase) setback using the centerline of the spindle and the #1 spark plug as the data points.

Certain classes have certain dimensions and it shouldn't really be an arbitrary decision . .

..on the other hand, if you're just running brackets, then there are NO rules except safety equipment....I think.... :shock: :oops: :oops: :oops: :oops:

6 to 8 inches seems to be the norm for motor set backs on the vega... alot keep it in the stock pos. too

Set the number 1 spark plug on center with the front spindles and the car will be happy you did, and so will you. I've only built/had 2 vega's but that where they were set.

JMO


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vegas
 

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fwiw... if the firewall is modified a cage as opposed to a bar is reqiured. this may or may not be a concern to ya. if your going cage than i believe the spark plug and spindle advise you got is probably about right.