Re: Cams/HP Ignition/Vent Window

["Dean W. Cains" <dwc@domain.elided>]

Hi Gabriel:

Here are a few answers for you.

1)  The cam.  Why not just call or email Centerline, as they're the ones 
selling the cam, and also the ones responsible if you have an installation 
problem?  I do believe the cam is a drop-in, though.  You'll need some new 
shims to adjust the valves on that half of the head, and also new locking 
hardware for the chain drive end of the cam.

2)  The RML ignition.  I've contacted them in the past, and for whatever 
reasons, was not impressed with the "honesty" or knowledge/experience of 
the person I spoke to.  I've heard from a few reliable sources that the 
distributor is not in fact modified at all, at least with regard to any 
"custom" advance curve.  The word is that it's a $35 Brazilian-made 
Bosch/VW 009, with the stock VW curve.  I can't verify any of that as fact, 
but can tell you that RML declined to tell me what the curve or max advance 
specs were, nor could they apply their mods to a Bosch distributor that I 
would supply.  Also, the parts to build your own version of any of their 
systems are available elsewhere, and for lots less money.  Their lower-end 
systems use Crane ignition boxes and coils, and the more expensive 
multi-tap coil system (also sold by Centerline) is available from 
Compu-Fire (more VW parts).

http://www.cranecams.com/CraneCams.htm

http://www.compufire.com/

If you put the parts together yourself, there are a few things to be wary 
of.  Finding a proper distributor (i.e. NOT a stock 009) can be tough.  On 
my '74 Spica-injected Spider, I used an old Bosch/Alfa 044 distributor, 
which works extremely well (with a Crane XR3000 spark box and LX91 
coil).  Any used distributor should be considered only if it's in good 
condition (i.e. bushings, advance mechanism, etc.) and if the advance curve 
is suitable for your engine application.  Advance specs for Alfa engines 
vary widely between the older carb'd cars, the various Spica models, and 
the Bosch L-Jet cars.  These varied specs also might lead one to beleive 
that the "custom" advance curve that Centerline and RML (and IAP, too) 
speak of doesn't exist, as one curve won't be ideal for all Alfa 
4's.  Again, I'm speaking from personal experience, only with my Spider and 
various systems I have put together.  The biggest change I got in 
performance came from resetting the idle-speed timing from 5 degrees ATDC 
to 5 degrees BTDC.  About the 10 HP gain, that might be a stretch, but my 
car starts and revs easier, and idles and runs smoother than it did with 
the stock Marelli distributor/points/coil system.  On my older car, 
reliability of the points-type ignition would also be more of a 
consideration than with your newer Bosch car that already has a breakerless 
ignition.

3)  Can't help with the vent window problem.  I didn't know there was an 
adjustment.

Regards,

Dean W. Cains
'74 Spider Veloce
Lutz, FL

At 10:53 PM 1/28/2002, you wrote:
>Date: Mon, 28 Jan 2002 22:40:03 -0500
>From: Forza <headroom@domain.elided>
>Subject: Cams/HP Ignition/Vent Window
>
>Hello Again,  Perhaps it's me, but I posted some questions and got only a
>couple of responses.. I know the answer are out there..Fred where are
>you??  Please help..
>The recipient my 86 Spider Veloce "Leapin Lena"
>1) I want to install VVT Cam from Centerline..it's the intake cam only @
>11mm lift, one thing..I again am receiving mixed messages..Can this cam
>just be bolted in, or as some have suggested, does the head have to be
>routed out to clear this cam?
>2) Here again I have received mixed responses..I'm currently considering a
>RML Ignition System @approx $450.00..Multi tap coil,  modified Bosch
>distributor, wires, etc.. the seller straight faced guarantees me 10 more
>HP?  I cannot believe that, but the man has plenty of racing experience and
>builds some quick Alfas.. For those of you not familiar with this system
>it's similar too, if not exactly like the Centerline HP system #ID455.. So
>have any of you installed this system, or something like it, and what has
>it done for your Spiders performance?
>3) Lastly.. My vent window will not stay open. I've tried to get to the
>adjustment nut but no luck..is there any easy way to do this adjustment.
>Please Help..I know enough to get in trouble....
>Gabriel Forzano
>86 Spider Veloce "Rosa"
>AROC South Florida

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