Hey guys! I've done a ton of reading on here, but my goodness the world of Formula Vee is so different than my experience of vintage British cars. With that, I've got a handful of long winded questions, so please be patient.
I'm building an old Caracal that I hope to do a long-term loan to a veteran race team that I volunteer with. The beneficiaries are constantly at the track and bust their ass as pit crews, but rarely (and understandably) get any time behind the wheel due to the sheer cost of the cars involved. With the cost of the car, and the fact that I did 90% of the work myself, I figured this was the most affordable way to get them some well deserved wheel time with something bigger than a kart. So, to the questions.
OILS:
- I'm not looking to set the world on fire, and I'm not looking for that last 1hp in oil technology with super thin oils. I'm looking for longevity and durability. I know everyone debates on what is "best", but what are some good, off the shelf, synthetic oils that I can use in this car. Something that will give me the best lifespan and forgivability of both the engine and gearbox. I ran Lucas Synthetic High-Zinc 20w50 in my old MGB, and Redline MT-90 in the gearbox, but I've never done anything with an aircooled engine outside of Honda dirt bikes. Are these safe choices that won't attack Synchros or any various internals?
PARTS:
- I powdercoated the entire suspension and am in the process of piecing it all back together. I need to source a swingaxle boot/seal kit, but what else would you replace? The bearings and wheel cylinders seem to be in decent shape, but I'm always weary of reusing them. Upon pulling the I-Beam from the oven, I apparently missed the internal bushings, and those need to be replaced as well. Lastly, I've tried my best to tighten up the shift-shaft joints, but they're just too far gone. Are there any sources for used apex/helicopter joints online?
SUSPENSION:
- I know everyone runs super trick front suspensions, but what's a good budget front shock that I can run on here? I've seen everything between cheap Monroe shocks, KYB shocks, and all sorts of stuff. Adjustability would be cool, but definitely not needed. I'm self financing this whole thing, so more affordable = more better.
I'm sure there I'll have a million more questions as time goes on, but I very much appreciate you guys!!