BSA Owners' Club Workshop Discussions

The BSA Workshop => Pre War => Topic started by: bluebay on 30 Oct, 2020, 07:52

Title: Period engine for HB24 frame
Post by: bluebay on 30 Oct, 2020, 07:52
Hi all
Looking for a period engine for my HB24 1937 frame,anything about or anybody got any suggestions on which engine would be suitable.As you can probably tell I'm new to the classic BSA world
Thanks
Phil.
Title: Re: Period engine for HB24 frame
Post by: Rupert on 31 Oct, 2020, 08:27
Hi Phil, as far as I am aware all of the 37 to 39 B series engines are interchangeable, same mountings on the engines, same lugs on the frames. So that's B20,21,22,23,24,25,26.
Several improvements were made to this range of engines during the 2 year production run.
So if you're lucky enough to have a choice the '39 engines are best (prefixed KB on the engine number) as they are almost up to post war B series spec.
Title: Re: Period engine for HB24 frame
Post by: bluebay on 05 Nov, 2020, 20:14
Hi Rupert,
Very much appreciate the information, gives me more scope on finding a engine. I may have found a KB 23 engine minus head carb etc. Will let you know how I get on.
Phil.
Title: Re: Period engine for HB24 frame
Post by: bluebay on 05 Nov, 2020, 20:16
Also adding to this which gearbox would be compatible ?
Thanks
Phil.
Title: Re: Period engine for HB24 frame
Post by: idie on 05 Nov, 2020, 20:44
There is a B22 250 engine for sale on ebay it has a JB engine number and is open to offers.
Title: Re: Period engine for HB24 frame
Post by: Rupert on 05 Nov, 2020, 22:59
Originally the gearbox for the 37-39 B series engines came as either hand change or foot change. Same main shell and 4speed cluster but different end covers for hand or foot change.
The post war B series lightweight box used 1946-48 is interchangeable as a complete item with the 37-39 box and shares many internal parts. That's the easiest option for a gearbox which will go straight into your frame as they are more plentiful, although no longer common these days.
Two unknowns if anyone else can help? -
Not sure if the contemporary C range boxes will do? I've been told the mainshaft is at a different height?
Not sure if any pre 37 lightweight boxes will fit?