I've heard this can be done, would someone explain how, a friend has a t-bone 80's brat will it work for the project? Thanks Robert

I've heard this can be done, would someone explain how, a friend has a t-bone 80's brat will it work for the project? Thanks Robert

 

Yes its a fairly simple swap actually... Check out this thread for a bit of info and I'll also expand on it as well...

http://www.ultimatesubaru.org/forum/showthread.php?t=64249

 

The 1800 you refer to as, is an EA81 engine code. This engine will drop directly into the car without any modifcations. However, the tranny is another story. You'll need to figure out shift linakge since the linkages are mounted differently between an EA81 d/r and a EA71 (1600cc) single range. You COULD get an EA81 with a dual range in an '81 GL Brat which is still a gen 1 bodystyle. Also, I have heard that the front driver side axle will either rub or be very close to the steering column, right where it enters the front crossmember. The ideal swap for that, to get clearance, is a steering rack out of a '81 GL Brat with the EA81 in it. If the tranny might be a bit more then you want to handle, you can always swap the bellhousing on the EA71 engine, onto the EA81 engine and it willl bolt up directly to the tranny. I have swpaped an EA81 into a gen 1 Brat before but I haven't gotten my tranny in yet. I'm going to be using a single range 4wd 4-speed EA81 tranny. However, I'm not going to be using the fornt axles so I won't have to worry about the clearance issue. You can use your stock driveshaft and axles if you do swap the EA81 tranny into your car. Tranny mount should work but I can't say for sure.