considering big block engine swap

[JcXtreme72]

Swap the '86 rear end in the '04 cart and then big block it. Drop your other engine in the '86 with the '04 rear end. Best of both worlds right there. The swap is going to be pretty much painless and you might as well do it when you swap motors.

[Scott H.]

If the engine cradles are the same, I would just disconnect the wiring, unbolt the axle from the springs, unbolt the front cradle mount, and swap the units as one piece so that everything wouldn't have to be re-aligned.

I would also replace the snubbers since they would be real easy to change while everything is out.

-Scott H.

[Wally15]

Some info from Wiki on the history of these engines (and rotations):

From initial introduction of their gas powered golf carts, Club Car used a Kawasaki FZ340 9 horsepower engine until 1991. In 1992, it was replaced by a Kawasaki 286 cc FE290 9 horsepower engine, which was more powerful and efficient. In 1997, Club Car sourced new transaxles which required clockwise input. To remedy the issue, the engine's rotation was switched to clockwise, and displacement grew to 287 cc. In 2005, output increased to 9.5 horsepower (7.1 kW) and the FE290 engine then exceeded SAE J1940 performance standards. Output also increased for the 351 cc FE350 from 11 horsepower (8.2 kW) to 11.5 horsepower (8.6 kW). It too exceeded the SAE J1940 standard

[lockman1]

Originally Posted by Wally15

Some info from Wiki on the history of these engines (and rotations):

From initial introduction of their gas powered golf carts, Club Car used a Kawasaki FZ340 9 horsepower engine until 1991. In 1992, it was replaced by a Kawasaki 286 cc FE290 9 horsepower engine, which was more powerful and efficient. In 1997, Club Car sourced new transaxles which required clockwise input. To remedy the issue, the engine's rotation was switched to clockwise, and displacement grew to 287 cc. In 2005, output increased to 9.5 horsepower (7.1 kW) and the FE290 engine then exceeded SAE J1940 performance standards. Output also increased for the 351 cc FE350 from 11 horsepower (8.2 kW) to 11.5 horsepower (8.6 kW). It too exceeded the SAE J1940 standard

Originally Posted by lockman1

It's not a dumb question! and it's been asked many times before! (Why do you think I keep those pictures handy!)

and YEP! the rotation change for FE engines was in 1996!

FZ340/KF82 - flat head 1985 to 91 Counter Clockwise rotation
FE290/350 - 1992 to 96.5 Counter Clockwise rotation
FE290/350/400 - 1996.5 to present - Clockwise rotation

It's to my understanding that Club Car is the only manufacturer to change to a clockwise rotation!

Good detailed info wally!

I guess mine was the "short and sweet" version!

[scottytohottyman]

Ok I have decided to swap suspensions. From the lifted (8" B.U. Kit) 04 to the stock 86 and vise versa. Put the big block in the 86 converting it to a utility cart for the house. Then the 04 will be at stock height with some new12" wheels & low pro tires. I do not have both carts in the same location right now, can anyone tell me if the suspensions will be a direct swap?

[KRAZYMATT]

Yes the suspensions will be a direct swap.

[scottytohottyman]

Thanks. I will post pics when I get started, proly not till camping season is over mid october.