interesting Article on the "Iron Duke" (Page 1/1)
OldGuyinaGT SEP 20, 11:44 AM
Saw this article on some history of the 'Iron Duke' I-4.

https://www.hemmings.com/bl..._campaign=2019-09-20

Also has a link to an SAE paper on it that I couldn't make work, but the paper is on the Georgia Fieros site under 'Fiero Documents' (where the link is supposed to go anyway). A lot of you may have known all this, but I didn't so maybe some will find it interesting new reading (like me).
theogre SEP 21, 01:56 AM
pdf link works fine for me.

1977 "Iron Duke" was the Replacement for the OH Cam Aluminum Engine that Killed Chevy Vega, some Opel and other models.
Even that had problems because
  • Was a rush job replacement.
  • GM Bean Counters and Management required the engine to be make as cheap as possible.
    Is why most had no Harmonic Balance on the Crank because would raise cost to make and install it. That fact is part of why so many of the Timing Gears fail. Not just because of the Phenolic Cam gear.
    Worse, even tho 87+ had a balancer part later, most replace the timing gear set and didn't bother getting it. Not even most GM Dealers that got the TSB to install them.

    ------------------
    Dr. Ian Malcolm: Yeah, but your scientists were so preoccupied with whether or not they could, they didn't stop to think if they should.
    (Jurassic Park)

    The Ogre's Fiero Cave

    [This message has been edited by theogre (edited 09-21-2019).]

    • Toddster SEP 21, 10:39 AM
    I have always wanted to believe the "Duke" part of the name was inspired by John Wayne....slow, but rugged. Anyway, that's my story and I'm sticking to it.
    Dennis LaGrua SEP 21, 08:09 PM
    The Iron Duke engine offered fuel economy, in an engine that was great for daily commuting. With 90HP it was sluggish in most automatic applications but with he stick it was passable. Today's four cylinder engines like the Ecotec put that engine to shame.

    ------------------
    " THE BLACK PARALYZER" -87GT 3800SC Series III engine, custom ZZP /Frozen Boost Intercooler setup, 3.4" Pulley, Northstar TB, LS1 MAF, 3" Spintech/Hedman Exhaust, P-log Manifold, Autolite 104's, MSD wires, Custom CAI, 4T65eHD w. custom axles, Champion Radiator, S10 Brake Booster, HP Tuners VCM Suite.
    "THE COLUSSUS"
    87GT - ALL OUT 3.4L Turbocharged engine, Garrett Hybrid Turbo, MSD ign., modified TH125H
    " ON THE LOOSE WITHOUT THE JUICE "