Hi. I am considering a trike build, and one of the possibilities for a power train is a Cadillac Northstar engine and trans axle transmission. I am leaning toward a mid-engine mount chassis, and the Caddy trans axle lends itself to that, I think. I haven't done a mock-up yet, but I expect that the mid engine mount will distribute the weight more or less evenly between the 3 wheels. One downside, is that the engine/tranny weigh in at just over 700#, but the near 300 horsepower should compensate for that.
Is this a sensible project? This will be my first trike, and while I am confident that I have the skill set to build it, am I overlooking something? Is 300 hp too much? Is the thing going to end up being too heavy? I am looking for knowledgeable input, hopefully from folks that have built and ridden their own trikes.
I greatly appreciate any insight you might have.
OBTW, the other possibility is a Subaru Outback donor.
The flat four, and front wheel drive are almost perfect for a mid-engine mount, and weight 250# less than the Northstar, but I am getting seduced by the prospect of all that power!epper:
Glen
Is this a sensible project? This will be my first trike, and while I am confident that I have the skill set to build it, am I overlooking something? Is 300 hp too much? Is the thing going to end up being too heavy? I am looking for knowledgeable input, hopefully from folks that have built and ridden their own trikes.
I greatly appreciate any insight you might have.
OBTW, the other possibility is a Subaru Outback donor.
The flat four, and front wheel drive are almost perfect for a mid-engine mount, and weight 250# less than the Northstar, but I am getting seduced by the prospect of all that power!epper:
Glen