My Rush CW460 mega-build is in full swing; last month’s chapter covered the installation of the high performance braking and fuelling systems. Over the next two chapters my quest is to develop and install the ultimate V8 Rush powerplant. Teaming up with one of the most renowned Rover specialists in the country - RPi Engineering - here is how the CW460’s bespoke engine and box was crafted. From the initial concept to final installation, you are about to become extremely well-acquainted with an astonishing powerhouse.

To complement the entertaining and informative magazine features found in Kit Car magazine, this page contains a large selection of additional images following my progress to date.

Remember, if you have any questions or comments just use the 'Contact Us' button above. I always endeavour to reply to all mails within 48 hours, but back to the engine build ...

The ultimate starting point. Brand-new cross bolted 4.6 litre V8 block cast by Mahle Powertrain Ltd., formally CosworthTechnologies. In fact, the very first block to come out of the new tooling: ENGINE NUMBER 1!

 

Dynmaically balanced 4.6 litre crank, rods and pistons.

 

Four bolt main construction for ultimate strength.

 

Big end shells being inserted by Holly, RPi Engineering's renowned engine builder.

 

Crank being placed into block. Holly ensuring end seal is in situ.

 

Cross bolts being inserted into main bearing caps.

 

Rods and pistons being prepared.

 

First piston of eight being entered into cylinder.

 

End cap being bolted into place.

 

Only another seven to go!

 

Piper 285 Stealth Max camshaft and followers - the ultimate street cam.

 

Holly inserts the camshaft taking care not to damage the bearings.

 

Duplex chain and vernier pulley pushed onto camshaft.

 

The ultimate in strength and timing adjustment.

 

Dialling-in the cam. Time-consuming, but essential to deliver optimum bhp.

 

Ensuring cylinder number one is at TDC, an essential step for the dialling-in process.

 

Merlin billet alloy F85 heads: the ultimate Rover V8 head producing far superior flow compared to upgraded standard heads.

 

Ultimate breathing!

 

Composite head gasket.

 

On go the heads ...

 

Long engine in all its glory.

You will have to wait until next month to see the conclusion of the Raptor F85's build, however, if you want a sneak preview of what this amazing powerplant looks like complete, click on the link below.