So now I have a rev counter I can actually see what revs I'm doing (pretty obvious really!). So, what sort of revs should I be taking my (1700 type 4) engine to, both in each gear and also max cruising revs on the motorway? ta,
The 1700 was known as the 'revvy' engine, in fact I believe it was originally fitted with a rev restricting rotor arm. @5400 rpm) As the engine grew bigger the max revs were reduced and only small increases in overall power were made. Max revs is 5000 but max torque is at 3500 so there's little point in revving it beyond there. Cruising speed will depend on your gearbox and wheel combination. I have 15" wheels with quite tall tyres on a std box meaning that 65 mph is about 3200 rpm.
I was surprised to find how smoothly my 1700 Type 4 revs, although I have no idea what it revs to as there's no rev counter fitted. 50 mph in 3rd seems a good time to change up if trying to make progress, whatever that is in rpm.
I think zed did tell me once that the 1700 likes to be revved, in all fairness since I've learned a bit more i'll often override the auto box on mine if it's labouring in 3rd (3 speed box) as in 2nd it cools better - more revs = cooler running.
For comparison, a type 1 (sure t4s can't be that different) likes to cruise at 3500-3750 (it's very happy there) and revs to maybe 4000-4500 through the gears. It really doesn't like anything above 4000rpm.
