I hate that this is the second time I have posted something like this, but I just learned that Jim Ellis passed away in January. https://www.tributearchive.com/obituaries/19812716/James-Ellis. Long time members will well remember "Jim E" for the wealth of information he provided to this club. Jim was a long time hot rodder who probably forgot more about engines than most us will ever know. There are still several of his articles in our Articles Archive (http://sunbeamalpine.org/category/articles-archive/) and, if you haven't read his article "1725 More Power" from the old Marque, I highly recommend it! http://sunbeamalpine.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/issue_13.pdf
After taking the 1725 engine to it heights, Jim turned his attention to the V6 conversions and dropped a 2.8 into his black S3, nicknamed "Vader". It wasn't just any 2.8 though; Jim used every trick in the book to increase its power. He believed that it was capable of setting the quarter mile record for the Ford 2.8L engine and, after a neck-snapping drive in the car at one of the Invasions, I believe that.
Jim was an automotive mentor to me and I never would have attempted any of the modifications I've made to my car (Vizard head, Chevy Rods, etc.) without his help and encouragement. I also considered him to represent the strength of this club. He and I had nothing in common other than our love of Alpines, but became friends through the SAOCA. His health had deteriorated in recent years and it became more difficult to stay in touch with him. I now wish I had tried harder. Rest In Peace, Jim E. You will be missed.
After taking the 1725 engine to it heights, Jim turned his attention to the V6 conversions and dropped a 2.8 into his black S3, nicknamed "Vader". It wasn't just any 2.8 though; Jim used every trick in the book to increase its power. He believed that it was capable of setting the quarter mile record for the Ford 2.8L engine and, after a neck-snapping drive in the car at one of the Invasions, I believe that.
Jim was an automotive mentor to me and I never would have attempted any of the modifications I've made to my car (Vizard head, Chevy Rods, etc.) without his help and encouragement. I also considered him to represent the strength of this club. He and I had nothing in common other than our love of Alpines, but became friends through the SAOCA. His health had deteriorated in recent years and it became more difficult to stay in touch with him. I now wish I had tried harder. Rest In Peace, Jim E. You will be missed.