[W126 Coupe] Conversion 380 to 500euro

[David G. Cole]

Dick,

If you care considering doing a possible bore change, might also consider
dropping in the crank & rods from a 560. The bores between the two motors
are the same, only the crank / rods / pistons are different. And if you
bored out to a 100mm bore (NOT recommended due to wall thickness, or lack
of, issures) then you have yourself a 6.0 motor.

Dave

> Any opinions on the following that is under consideration at this time???
>
> I plan on removing the 380 motor and keeping the new tranny on the 83
> SEC.  I have a 500euro motor that I am planning on having completely
> rebuilt before transplanting into the 380 chassis.  Since I have the
> entire 500euro MB with all electrics, fuel management, controls etc.
> they are available for a complete transplant with a minimum of fuss. (I
> hope)
>
> Any reasons I would not want to go this route?  Costs of the rebuild
> with a few changes to piston bore and cams are in the $4-5k range.
> Transplant is in the $1k range.
>
> Just asking if there is any downside to the effort described.  I know
> that a zero clocked 500euro motor with 10:1 compression ratio and more
> horsepower along with a period of minimal service once the engine is
> reworked is the benefit.
>
> I had weighed this against a dual chain conversion on the 380 motor.  I
> have no plans on doing the dual chain work which comes very close to the
> above costs (approx $4-5k).  It would seem easier to just off-load the
> 380 motor for a few dollars and gain the better MB engine for this car.
> Of course I'd love to spot a 560euro but, think that very unlikely.
>
> I am attaching a really crunched photo of the project SEC I have been
> working on for a while now just to help you appreciate why I'd keep the
> 380SEC at all!
>
> Regards,
>
> Dick
> The MB Coupes Website!
> W126 SEC Mailing List
> Postings remain property of MB Coupes, L.L.C.