Re: [ihc] RE: MV in Light Line

[Tom Mandera <tsm1@xxxxxxxxx>]

Howard R Pletcher wrote:
> I was not aware of any plans (which doesn't mean there weren't any) to
> put the MV in  the Light Line, although I'm sure it was thought about as
> the engine was being developed.  
> The MV wasn't introduced until 1974 and the phase out of the light line
> was already in the works for 5/75.  I don't think the MV would have
> received serious consideration at that point although I think it would
> have been fairly easy to do.
I imagine Jim was thinking along the lines of several others with regard 
to the engine set-back in 74.

If the Light Line was destined for death, why do a redesign for 74 and 
'75 at all?  Why such a significant one, like moving the engine back?

I've heard (and probably helped pass along) conjecture that the engine 
was moved back in an attempt to make more room in the engine bay, 
presumably for the MV404, though with the demise of the Light Line, that 
change / combo never came to pass.

If not for an MV, what other reasons sound promising for the engine 
set-back?

I realize it may yield better handling and/or weight distribution.. but 
IH was putting the engine over the front axle for a long time without 
worrying about how it handled..

-Tom