Most things in life come down to timing, including dialing in the firing order of a V-16 made from two LS3 V-8s.

“If you have two V-8s that are exactly in the same timing, your pistons aren’t firing properly; it can rip itself apart—not good.” That’s Bryan Fuller summarizing the challenges presented by physically joining a pair of LS3 V-8 engines to create an 854 cubic-inch V-16 reported to make in the neighborhood of 1200 horsepower.

But while getting 16 holes to fire in a complementary, non-destructive manner is a feat unto itself, the impetus behind the project is a one-off custom Roadster designed by Hot Wheels with direct input from the unnamed, ostensibly well-heeled client. Fuller says the design of the 19.5-foot-long custom roadster is inspired by the 1938 Cadillac V-16 Series-90, but devotees of the brand’s history will recognize the spirit of the 1937 Cadillac V16 Hartmann Cabriolet, a two-off run of vehicles crafted in Switzerland for—you guessed it—a wealthy client.

Back in the 21st century, Fuller had to address the timing, cooling, fuel, and air issues, as well as engineer their structural unity and their combined output to ensure the V-8s play nicely together.

As for ignition timing, the rear engine is clocked back “about 45 degrees,” which allows the tandem V-8s to fire in the proper order of a V-16. A single starter spins both. a. flex disc), a flex joint comprised of a rubber or urethane center with metal mounting plates on either side that mates the rear of the front engine with the front of the rear engine.

Source link