Topic: Going to build a BP: Need your input..

[hiflyer727]

We are completing an IMOW and now desire to build a machine for the BP class.  We want to do it right, the first time. I have been reading on this site and getting so much information that I am getting confused, so what I would like to do is get input from you guys one step at at time.

I would like to start this off by asking about an engine, and transmission.

1. What would be an ideal basic engine to build up?

2. What would be the ideal transmission to search for? I hear much about the 700 Peereless, if that is where I should start, what model number is ideal?

Thanks,
Mike

[creechfan]

i was wondering, whats BP stand for?

[Red Horse Racing]

British Petroleum.  OH, you mean the racers?   The P is prepared, as in prepared classes, the B?  Don't know, my guess, just a letter designation.

Dale, waiting for the real answer in Michigan

[George Herrin]

Stands for Be Prepared, you build one of these ya gotta be prepared for one heck of a ride!!! Nothing like it.

[mowdak1]

Back to the original question...

George will of course tell you a Tecumseh.
 
Don at G-Team would tell you an Intek V-Twin.

And, personally I'm looking for a 20hp Opposed Twin to build, 'cuz it's 46 CID out of the box!  

[George Herrin]

1. What would be an ideal basic engine to build up?

The engine with the most off the shelf performance parts is the Vangaurd or the Tecumseh. The cheaper build between the two is the Tecumseh in my opinion and it has the lartggger cubic inch from the start and dual carbs. Then there;s the Intek It has potential and Don is potentialing it. In time he may have a killer motor. But time will tell. Don is a fantsastic builder. We have over the years done much together. He is the one who started me out on the right path to start with. He's the Brother I never had so to speak. Love him and his familyt to death. SO thats your choices in my opinion.

2. What would be the ideal transmission to search for? I hear much about the 700 Peereless, if that is where I should start, what model number is ideal?

All 700's will do the job if prepped right. Off the shelf I would sao a 700-023 or 700-039. Both have the steel input and bevel gears which is vital to tranny life expectantcy

[hiflyer727]

Thank you guys for your input on the motor and transmission. NOW, for the front end I am leaning towards getting the setup that e.c.distribution offers.....I figure with that I can dial in all the important factors involved with front end geometry.

My next question deals with brakes for the B/P class. Is it prefered to have brakes on all four wheels? Is it necessary to go the route of hydraulics? I believe this is more expensive, and is it worth this added cost?  Thanks

[mowdak1]

On a BP I'd say yes in all respects. You have more torque and more horsepower, thus greater potential speeds, and theoretically more weight to stop. Thus you want the best brakes you can buy.

[George Herrin]

Personally I think brakes on all 4 corners should be mandatory in BP. In Knoxville last year my best friend, exboss, and team mate Tim Ragsdale lost it in front of me both at a high rate of speed. Had it not been for the controled stop the 4 wheel hydraulic disk brakes offered he would have been run over seriously. YEa you looking at 700 dollars unless you find some killer deals but what price do you put on safety.