Last month l explained why I chose the services of RPi Engineering to handcraft my CW460’s bespoke powerplant, and also gave you an insight into the early stages of its creation. This month the build continues through to its conclusion; the end result looks absolutely stunning. As for the V8’s true potential, this will have to wait until the Rush ventures onto the highways, but one thing is for sure, it will deliver astonishing performance figures. So let’s get down to business and once again join Holly from RPi and the Raptor F85 ...

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...

 

Hydraulic followers inserted into block.

 

Adjustable pushrods sat on followers.

 

What a picture! All lined up and ready to go.

 

Looking good, but just wait until the induction hardware is added.

 

Holly adjusts the pre-load on the pushrods. A time-consuming process.

 

Oil pump packed prior to assembly.

 

Gasket placed on block in preparation for the front cover.

 

Front cover and new water pump being bolted onto block.

 

Oil pick-up pipe.

 

Sump lowered over bottom end.

 

Sump bolts being tightened in sequence.

 

Inlet manifold prior to porting. This would be done at a later date due to time pressures of getting the unit ready for the Essen show in Germany.

 

Brand-new injectors.

 

Inlet manifold and injector rail in situ.

 

Bespoke Merlin F85 rocker covers. This engine will look like no other Rush V8.

 

Front pulleys and alternator. Clearance issues with the Rush chassis may be a problem.

 

Back to the induction hardware. The one on the right is a standard unit, the one on the left is ACT's amazing trumpet upgrade. Stunning. Good gas flow is the secret to reliable power gains, not just fitting aggressive cams and increasing compression ratio.

 

On go the trumpets.

 

The ultimate Rover V8 induction kit from ACT. Carbon fibre, large trumpets and triple throttle bodies.

 

Getting there!

 

On go the dizzy and high performance leads.

 

The Raptor F85, RPi Engineering's ultimate V8 with Holly, one of the UK's leading Rover V8 engine builders. My huge thanks go to Holly, Chris and the team for all their help with the project.

 

For a preview of what the engine looks like once installed in my Rush and a full specification, click on the link below.