ROVER M16

The transplant that wasn't !

This 'M' series Rover unit was lifted from a 1989 220GTi. The 'M' series engines were a development of the 'O' series units which were derived from the old BMC 'B' series engine. The 'M' series eventually became the 'T' series and in this form a turbocharged version was available.

This particuar 'M' series was originally destined for our Humber Sceptre project car and was chosen for two reasons, one to be different, and two, because it became available at the right price in the right place at the right time! By today's standards power at 140bhp isn't exactly startling, but is virtually double that available from the Sceptre's original 1592cc 8 valve pushrod engine.

We've seen this engine used in MGBs and Land Rovers. In the former it was mated to the MG's original gearbox and in the latter to Rover's LT77 type 'box. The idea here was to retain the Sceptre's original 4 speed box which has the benefit of overdrive on 3rd and 4th. To mate the engine and 'box the standard Sceptre clutch assembly would be retained. This bolted directly to the Rover Flywheel without the need for any mods! An engine to 'box adaptor plate would be required along with a special spigot bush housing bolted to the centre of the flywheel.

Work progressed as far as stripping, cleaning and refurbishing the engine. A new sump pan was made from scratch with the the bowl in the centre. This would allow the front of the sump to clear the Humber's (modified) front crossmember and the rear to clear a steering rack so that the original steering box could be dispensed with. Repositioning the bowl in the centre of the sump also meant that the oil pump pick-up and strainer had to be moved away from the front of the engine. This was done by simply changing the angle of the strainer pipe.

That was about as far as this project got before our plans changed and it was decided that the Sceptre would be given Rover V8 power.

The question now, is what do we do with this engine? Suggestions welcome!