Talk Morgan Forums Morgan Sports Cars Classic Morgans (pre-CX) engine for '70 4/4

I will very shortly be starting a restoration on my '70 4/4. The car is in rough shape and needs a lot of work.

The problem I'm having is in deciding how I want to power it. This car has been with me my entire life, so there's plenty of nostalgia tied to the venerable old Kent engine. I know the Kent inside and out, and the engine is in fairly decent condition. That said, I'm in the US and Kent's are pricey. I can get more power for less money out of a Zetec, or since I'm starting from the ground up, a Duratec.

Nostalgia and originality vs power and reliability. I'm certain I'm not the first to face this dilema. Which way to go?

Why not both?

That's my resolution to the dilemma when it arises.

That's a tough call and you will have to be the one to make it. Sorry, I'm stating the bleeding obvious. What I love about my Morgan is its originality. Completely un-messed with and carrying its scars and stretch marks well. I will resist restoration for as long as possible. But sometimes I imagine it with twin webbers and side exhaust and lumpy cam and, and, and..

I think my solution will be as already suggested. As soon as funds allow buy a more modern mog and keep the 68 4/4 in its original state. But if that's not an option for you then if upgrading the engine means more enjoyment and use from your mog in years to come then go for it.

I have made a (slow) start on my 69 4/4. The car is original but I have considered several upgrades including 5 speed and later steering box. However after much thought and because I like cars that are original I have decided to rebuild it back to standard spec hence I have been buying parts for the Kent engine. The only concession I have made is purchasing a Rutherford rear suspension kit thus replacing the lever arms with AVO dampers.

Hi John
Nostalgia and originality vs power and reliability. Tough! but if your Kent is as you say "fairly decent condition" then I would keep it, and restore the car to original condition around it and that is daunting and costly enough. Replacing the Kent for a Zetec etc. sounds simple but consider changing engine & gearbox mounts, exhaust routing through the Chassis, prop shaft just to name a few modification will I think just increase your costs and sleepless nights.
Do not know the American market but I imagine a restored 1970 4/4 would be a lot more sought after than the alternative?
Wishing you the best in your restoration, it will be fun which ever way you decide.

David, 2001 4/4 4 seater, Zetec silvertop.

I've thought of updating the engine a little. Getting rid of the points ignition would improve reliability. I've been day-dreaming about going all in and fuel injecting it. Jenvey makes some short throttle bodies that should fit without any body modifications.

I'll be bringing the car home this month. Posts to follow as I start in on it.

Twin 40s look well on a Kent.

Very tasty indeed

I agree mods such as electronic ignition make good sense and easily reversible if need be. Additionally plumbing in a dual circuit brake system on safety grounds also makes sense IMO. I do like modified Morgans however and not sure how much a well (engineered) modified Morgan would affect the value compared to a non modified, probably little I would think given that folks have been modifying them for decades.

I'm not concerned about re-sale value. I will never sell this car. Never. I want to enjoy it.

A dual circuit brake system is a good idea. I recall once, barreling down a nice twisty hill only to find out at the bottom that the brakes didn't work.