1400SS questions

[lowlander]

Hi there,

 

I currently own a 1400SS which, according to Caterham has a rev limit of 7600 rpm. When out for a ‘spirited’ drive I usually go for the next gear at 7000rpm will the odd run up to 7200rpm when I’m slightly late with the gearchange. A combination of the 6 speed ‘box and the relative lack of torque with the 1400 means that the engine spends a lot of time north of 4500rpm.

 

A couple of questions.

 

1. How accurate is the VDO tachometer on my 1994 car likely to be?

2. With regular servicing using good quality oil and making sure the engine is fully warm before giving it some beans how long do you think it will last before a refresh / rebuild?

 

Thanks and all the best.

 

 

 

[Pelico]

A 1400SS should last almost forever. I would not be worrying about rebuild costs.

[Allen Payne]

My old VDO tacho reads 200rpm high, but that might just mine.

 

The engines do seem to last forever, but if you only have a wet sump beware of oil surge with sticky tyres on trackdays

[Nick Pargiter]

IMHO I don't think the VDO rev counter is that accurate. The shift light came on at just over 7000. I am now using an Elliot rev counter and the light comes on at 7400.

My 1400SS engine has done just over 40k and is fine. The hydraulic followers could do with replacing as they are taking longer to charge but that is it.

 

Nick

[Nifty]

As above

 

Keep off the straight and narrow 😬

[Englishmaninwales]

my 1400 ss used to get roasted everytime I drove it ( when warm) all the way to the limiter as often as possible 😬 😬 😬

 

Malcolm

[SLR No.77]

Touché 😬

 

www.superse7ens.co.uk..........the rebuild 😬