Composite Engine Block
Turbo Mini Forums

Hi Guys

Through work I've met this guy making composite engine blocks in the US, they are called polimotors and have been used back in the 80s in a lola. Hes now developing a Duratec composite engine for race use initially but might try and get the big boys interested for road cars?



The process to make the blocks and any other casting type products is quite simple, im just wondering if there would be a market for a lighter A series engine? Or some of the other cast parts such as the gearbox. I can think there would be a significant weight saving from the big iron lump, but Im not sure it would be allowed in the MSA regs?

Im going to investigate further but thought I would see what peoples opinions would be?

Interesting, but the cost would prohibit. Most people

yep thats what i was thinking, but its a lot cheaper than an aluminium machined block.

composite block sounds sexy but if money was going to spent on the A series I'd rather see a 4 bearing crank and 16 valves

Masturbation is not a crime its a hobby

I don't see the point for an A-series. MSA regs state that the engine must be externally identifiable as that fitted to the car. what this really means is that it must be the original engine.

Also, it would be better to design an engine using the CF technology to make the lightest engine possible. The A-series (or any other aluminum or iron block) has been designed around the material it is constructed of. to then make it out of something else makes no sense to me.

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Well, if you redesigned an a series for a 4 bearing main, and then 16v and all the rest of it, and redesigned the box to bring it up to date and strength it wouldn't be an a series anymore. It would almost be a K series!

I was thinking of changing the block to suit the K head, and from what ive seen of the technology it would be easy enough to adapt the internal design.
I agree with Wil it is really a black metal design but im not just looking into copying the A series. Externally it would look the same when painted :)

I'm more interested in the 4 bearing cranks some are talking about, I'd like to see one ,lol

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How about an Audi V10 engine if we're talking about a redesign

Masturbation is not a crime its a hobby

Might be able to pilfer one out of an R8 or S6 at work, I think they might notice though

To be honest, I'd prefer a five bearing crank to a four bearing one..,

Masturbation is not a crime its a hobby

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The material is being tested as a replacement to the current f1 boxes and suspension parts bur not wishbones. Im sure if we go ahead with trialling the material I will have a stab at making some suitable mini stuff.