Ken Haven

UPDATE FOR THE 16V 2.0 LITER THEMA TURBO POWER PLANT

Summary (2004 - 2008)
I learned a lot from my 8V Thema project, but that engine was a bit tired, having never been rebuilt.  After many track days the engine finally spun a bearing, so I retired it and picked up a 16V Thema turbo engine along with Thema transaxle. After a lot of work I'm currently very happy overall with the combination. Performance is as good as many supercars and yet it also works well as a daily driver. In a recent dyno test we recorded 285 hp and 284 lb-ft of torque at the rear wheels.


 
Structural
I decided to utilize all three stock Thema mounts since they were designed for the engine, and the two front mounts incorporated dampers to minimize vibration transmission. The firewall modification from the 8V was retained, and the crossmember modified for front mount attachment as well as for exhaust clearance. The engine tilts forward for best chassis weight distribution, and I had to notch the gas tank to clear the head.
 
motor mount "kit" using stock Thema visco mounts

 

Engine
This time I disassembled and rebuilt the engine, including forged pistons, shot peened rods, 12mm head bolts, performance cams. Flywheel was lightened and all moving components were balanced. I discovered what I viewed as a manufacturing flaw in the engine block oil galleys that caused spun #1 bearings, so oil is fed externally directly into the rear oil galley. I was not able to devise a sump baffle system that would maintain oil pressure on track days, so a dry sump was fitted.
 

Engine installation as in 2009

 

Intake
The stock intake manifold was retained but the restrictive throttle body was replaced with a larger unit from a BMW 5 series. Injectors were uprated to 550cc. A large Spearco intercooler was fitted with direct fresh air feed from a side air scoop. An intercooler mister was devised for use on track days.

Exhaust
Turbo was upgraded to a new design Garrett ball bearing "disc potato" unit, fed by a 4 into 1 equal length header made from 321 stainless steel. Exhaust is 3" stainless all the way through. The wastegate is a Tial mechanical fixed at 1.2 bar.
 

Homemade exhaust header, Garrett ball bearing turbo, Tial wastegate, homemade linkage for a cable shifter.

 

Controls
An aftermarket ECU with wideband O2 sensor allows full fuel and ignition programmability and closed loop control. I use modern igniters (coil + control electronics) on each spark plug, driven with an electronic distributor.

Cooling
A large aluminum radiator is fitted along with dual Spal fans. A grille opening is added to the engine cover so that exhaust heat can escape directly. 

Transaxle
The transaxle is an uprated unit designed for the Thema with optional Ferrari 3.2 liter engine. There is a competition clutch and pressure plate. A Transtad torque-sensing limited slip differential works really well in making sure both rear wheels are transmitting full power to the ground. I worked out a cable shifter that has great feel and eliminates all the links and rods that are otherwise necessary.

Suspension
I've installed coil-overs with Koni racing shocks which made a huge improvement in autocross times at the expense of a somewhat rougher ride.

Brakes
I've kept the Toyota MR-2 turbo brakes but switched to a Tilton racing master cylinder and pedal assembly, which greatly improved pedal feel. 

 

Interior
Since this is a highly stressed 2 liter, I wanted good instrumentation to monitor engine health and the stock instrument panel couldn't work with what I had in mind. I built a new dash and center console from scratch, and installed a combination of DEFI and AutoMeter gauges. I also wasn't impressed with the stock climate control and fit a heater/AC unit from a Dodge Neon. Now there is lots of airflow. I also added a very nice stereo with Polk speakers designed by MOMO, matches the MOMO wheel and shifter knob.
 
 

 

Exterior
No changes since the 8V project, other than fabricating a rear grille based on a Testarossa theme, and the installation of HID headlights. Given the car's performance and tempation to drive fast, I feel it's best to keep the stock appearance and a low profile!

 
car at the 2007 American Lancia club reunion in Palm Springs with proud owner.   custom rear grille and dual exhaust, side scoops for air to engine and intercooler
© Arnoud Coenen, www.lanciabetamontecarlo.nl / Ken Haven, USA. October 2009