Installing a V-8...a few questions, Progress thread & 914 makeover Options

[computers4kids]

I'm installing a chevy 305 with a renegage kit and I have a few questions.

There seems to be plenty of room to leave the battery tray in the OEM position, why do many move the location to the trunk?

I have the Renegade wiring harness but no diagram...can someone send me a copy?

The exhaust is headers with twin turbo exhaust. Do you remove the stock exhaust heat sheild...it fits either way. Is it good to leave it or remove it?

Where do you source your power for the front 'dual fan radiator?' From what I have read it needs to be powered all the time, not switched. Is there a source to tap into in the front trunk or do you run a dedicated line...if so how heavy?

I would really love to see pictures of your V-8 914 front end so see what kind of setup you did for valance and cutting the bumper! I'm good on the fender cuts.

Stupid Question: The renegade recommends using #8 1/2 metal screws to attach the brackets that hold the coolant hoses to the bottom of the car. It mentions to be careful not to puncture the fuel lines in the tunnel. How can you tell if your'e going to hit a fuel line or not? ...other than just hoping and guessing?

Sorry for all the questions...
Mark
Edited.....thought I would add some before and a after picture since this thread has evolved into a v-8 install/restore/modify thread. The story begins....

[computers4kids]

Well, I came home tonight after work and felt like turning a wrench so I headed for the garage. I went ahead and bolted a sideshifter up to the chevy v-8. I was glad to see once I had pulled the tailshifter which was on there, I saw the a new 9 inch two stage Sachs clutch...yes, the PO had purchased the upgrade clutch package.

Things were moving along, so I figured I would try to see how the motor was going to fit. That was easier than installing a 4! I feel like I'm making progress...the motor is now bolted in place and clearances are good...by pulleys, sides, and the lid will close. I will have to cut the brace on the lid. Anyway, that's enough for today.

Oh...I did notice that the housing that bolts to the water pump was not tight and on closer inspection was just loosely attached with no gasket. Will I find that gasket at FLAPS?...or do I need to source it from Renegade. I guess I could make one as well.

[jmmotorsports]

Well, I came home tonight after work and felt like turning a wrench so I headed for the garage. I went ahead and bolted a sideshifter up to the chevy v-8. I was glad to see once I had pulled the tailshifter which was on there, I saw the a new 9 inch two stage Sachs clutch...yes, the PO had purchased the upgrade clutch package.

Things were moving along, so I figured I would try to see how the motor was going to fit. That was easier than installing a 4! I feel like I'm making progress...the motor is now bolted in place and clearances are good...by pulleys, sides, and the lid will close. I will have to cut the brace on the lid. Anyway, that's enough for today.

Oh...I did notice that the housing that bolts to the water pump was not tight and on closer inspection was just loosely attached with no gasket. Will I find that gasket at FLAPS?...or do I need to source it from Renegade. I guess I could make one as well.

The gasket should be a Fel-Pro 11730

Jerry