Well it is time to add the Reven 7 to the completed builds.
Here are some of my build details.
The frame is based on the Haynes book, but virtually all the dimensions have been changed to fit my particular build. I had also wanted to incorporate a full roll cage, so some extra tubing was added, not only to provide lateral support, but also to allow mounting for the long trailing links. The rear section was also made from roll cage tubing to provide some extra protection for the fuel tank
The engine is a 2005 Yamaha R1. I had been intrigued by the BEC concept very early on, and although I had no intention to build a track car, I could not pass up the lure of a high revving engine. I also enjoyed the challenge of matching all the various components needed to make it a well functioning car. To accomplish a reverse, I took various ideas, and found a way to design an electric reverse. It is a simple starter motor (HiTorque SBC) mounted in the bottom of the tunnel, that engages a gear, that is welded to the fixed portion of the two piece driveshaft. It spins the driveshaft in the opposite direction, when the engine is in neutral. It is a bit loud, sounds a bit like a geared funicular, but it is very effective in moving the car. I have found that it is very easy to push, the roll cage provides for good handholds, and I only use the reverse, when I'm strapped in and need to quickly back up. Otherwise, it is just as convenient to do it by hand.
The rear end is a live axle from a 1994 Ford Mustang. One of the challenges of BECs, is the final drive ratio. Bike engines are geared fairly tall, in my case the R1 has about a 2.64 ratio, and most IRS differentials are too short for that. To account for the heavier weight, the engine needs to be geared shorter, and research had shown that a 3.27 ratio was about right. I am able to cruise at about 100 km/h (60 mph) around 6,000 RPM. Not in minivan territory, but acceptable to me.
The front suspension is inboard, with coil overs from Yamaha R1s. I enjoyed the challenge of going that route, it also seemed fitting to use more motorcycle parts, and it was a little more "locost". The rear suspension is traditional coil overs with a live axle, however, I did change the 4 link trailing arms to a Mallock design.
All the body panels, except for the tunnel, are fully removable and fastened with machine screws. The are not painted, but rather wrapped with a vinyl wrap. Should I wish to change the colour in the future, it will be very easy.
The final, official weight, is 610 kg (1,340 lbs), which is heavier than most BEC builds. However, I did not intend to make it super light, but strong and safe. One of these days I will put it on some more accurate corner weight scales, to see if it is really correct. But at the end of the day, it does not really matter.
My whole build philosophy was to create a fun toy, that I can take on a spirited drive over the local country roads on a sunny day. I am fortunate that I live in a place, where empty roads are just minutes from my house and I do not need to worry about traffic. The car is totally impractical, loud and not user friendly, but it is exactly what I wanted. A 20 minute rip up the Meadows Road after work, and I have a big smile on my face. That's all I need.
Here is my build log:
viewtopic.php?f=35&t=14520&start=0Here is my build video and some other little vignettes:
https://vimeo.com/143524140https://youtu.be/4Npf3GsIPQchttps://youtu.be/gwIxgKMOY3E