I'm currently building a 66 cuda vintage drag car with r1 block and jerico 4 speed. Car will have a 12 point cage. Inner fenders and a frame have been replaced with 2x3 rails. Engine will be n/a and hopefully around 600 hp (goal is low 10s). Initial plans were to use solid stock style mounts on the engine and a rubber trans mount. I was wondering if I should upgrade to a front / mid plate combo? Or is the r1 stout enough to use the ears on the block?

Thanks

Go high tech - two piece timing cover with motor plate and remote water pump. It will look sharp!

http://arengineering.com/products/sb-timing-chain-cover/

The front and mid plate help stiffen the chassis..
keep the rubber trans mount but add a engine limiter

For the record, lots of people out there going very fast with a motor plate, limiter, and stock trans mounts.

I am running solid motor mounts and a rubber trans mount and a small block stock block making over 600 hp.

More room for headers with a motor plate.

I find my cars with motor plates makes it way easier to r/r the engine.

I run stock motor mounts and poly trans mount. Also have mid plate.

Thanks for the help. I'm getting ready to put the engine and trans between the frame rails for mock up. I'll get a better visual on how everything is laying out.

1967dartgt - I was thinking about doing it the same as you. Solid factory up front with a mid plate. Any pics of your set up?

Car is being built to race at vintage drag events so it sort of needs to look the part as well. I love that two piece timing cover but modern ele water pumps aren't accepted.

Here a pic.

Another.

From the front.

Brad, Quit teasing me. My eyes hurt from trying to see your K-Frame