What to do with my V8

[Jammez]

Hi Folks

I have a 1994 soft dash RR classic that has just lunched it's gearbox. Engine and gearbox have been removed and another box purchased. Whilst it's all out I'm doing some work on the bulkhead as it's easy to get to now.

My question for the collective is what should I do to the engine whilst I have it out? The cars only been with me 12 months & whilst I have plenty of history for it I don't have any details of any significant engine work so I'm assuming it's all pretty much standard. It definitely feels down on power compared to my other classic so at this kind of mileage a new cam is a good shout.

I'm doing ends & mains etc but what recommendations would you have for upgrades? A little more poke wouldn't be amiss but I'm not looking for anything crazy and anything that will improved reliability etc.

Over to you guys!

[DKL]

The piece of string can be quite long here. You could fit a higher lift cam - I put a real steel cyclone in my 4.2. You could fit a nice new tubular exhaust system but don't forget you'll still need a cat.
Then you could upgrade to a bigger displacement, do lots of gas flowing on the heads etc.
I'm sure people with more knowledge than I will be along. There are other threads on this topic.
Frankly unless you go mad its never going to be quick so I wouldn't try too hard. There are plenty of other ways to spend money on a soft dash!

[battered]

Usual thinking is that exhausts give best results, followed by free flow air filters and better manifolds, before you start modding cams. You can of course do all this after you have put the engine back in.

[CAPP0]

You don't mention mileage but it's fairly well-documented that the RV8 benefits from a cam replacement once you're into 6 figure mileage (I can't remember the exact number). If it's sitting on the floor it'll be a pretty simple job to do.

[300bhp/ton]

Cam and followers.

Go for an aftermarket cam if you want a little more poke. A good exhaust will only enhance this.

[task]

It really depends how much you want to spend...

As a few have mentioned above, a camshaft is a good shout. Replace the followers and fit a decent timing chain while you're in there. Check the rocker arms and shafts for wear.

The exhaust is difficult, the cats are the biggest restriction and you'll need the cat to pass the visual inspection for the MOT.

If you want to spend a bit more money then a 4.6 block with all your parts bolted to it works well in a classic but the bill for building a good block with flanged liners isn't cheap.

[Jammez]

Thanks guys. The engine has done 110k so I'm sure putting just a new standard cam is going to make it feel so much better!

I'm not looking to go crazy, I think if I can get an honest 200- 220bhp without losing any low down torque I'll be happy.

I'm also going to have a bash at reinstating the air susp as I've got 3 complete sets of pumps and valve blocks + recon kit. Air susp on my L322 is great and I think the coils that have been fitted to the classic when the air was removed are a bit harsh. It'll be great to get back to a nice smooth ride.

I'll keep you posted as hopefully I'm going to spend some time on it over the Xmas/New Year break.