JDM engine swap? please help

[Sb13104]

OK, I am new to DSM's, I just bought my '96 TSi AWD last month. Since then, i have spent ALOT of time reading up. I still don't know ****. I would like to build up an engine but i don't have to place to do it, or the know how. I have been reading up a little on the JDM swap option. I searched and read as much as i could but most of the stuff i read was two people arguing over it. I understand there are different opinions on it, but i would like some general info. Which JDM is the best? What do they come with? How hard to swap? I've been looking at some and they are cheaper than i expected. Then again i dont know what to really look for. I know this has been posted alot and i tried to read up as much as i could, but i still need more help. Thanks for the space.

 

[Hobbes =^.^=]

The best JDM engine you can get are the EVO I-III or the VR4 rally spec engines. Both these engines come with a 16g and 510 injectors. But they are very rare. Both should drop in easily into your car since they are 7-bolt (same as your engine) These are the only ones worth getting. Also keep in mind that the turbos aren't under their warrenty, so if they are damaged. You are stuck with a regular JDM engine, and you lost the whole reason of buying that particular engine.

If you are looking to build up a good engine to handle boost, but don't want to go all out. I suggest getting a 6-bolt engine (90-92) with 95 pistons. But in order to do this, you will have to find a good DSM shop in your area to do this swap, as there are more parts and labor involved.

I suggest going the 6-bolt route, because when you rebuild it. It's practically brand new and you know exactly what's been done to it. Whereas the JDM engine can be damaged and abused.

If your looking to get a pre-built engine. I suggest going with John Shepherd . You can't beat his prices and quality of work.

For more information on a 6-bolt swap into a 2g, check this link out. http://www.magnusmotorsports.com/1g2g.htm

Hope this helps, good luck

 

[Sb13104]

So basically the only plusses of getting one of those JDM's is a 16g and some 510's? I was told they had better everything almost.

So i can get a complete US built engine? I saw some shortblocks and stage "" heads and stuff, but i'm looking for a complete engine. I would love to do it myself but i have no place to build one. I would just like to get a built engine and have it dropped. I would really like to go the JDM route but i need more info first. I've heard alot of good things about the Gvr4. Does anyone know of any reputable JDM importers? Again im looking for the whole engine (ecu and all). Thank you.


PS. I was originally hoping to go the t3/t4 route but i think i may be settling for the big 16g. If this helps any with the decision.

 

[SMI]

http://www.roadraceengineering.com/4g63motorsearch.htm

 

[Streetbeat]

the differences in what engine you get are gonna be the turbo and injectors...the only difference between jdm and usdm is the cyclone intake manifold which has been debatable on its performance....some say it sucks cause of air flow blockage and way more oil lines and gaskets....others say its great for providing some massive low end torque.....no matter what you should get a 6 bolt engine....itd be cheaper to just get a 6 bolt block and put some after market internals so like hobbes says youll know whats in it

 

[Sb13104]

I'm liking the idea of going to John Shepard for a built 6 bolt but i dont know anything about him or getting a built engine. I was liking the idea of a JDM because they came with bigger turbos and injectors and other things. I've been told i can get a whole Gvr4 engine, engine, ecu, and everything for 1300. How much would a built 6 bolt cost? Then i'd still have my s*^tty t25? Please tell me more about all this. Thanks.

 

[Hobbes =^.^=]

John Shepherd has the fastest street DSM (9.35) He's also won the championship a few times.

A 6-bolt rebuild can vary from $1000 - $2500. Depending on what you want to do with it. I think a 6-bolt with stock 'big rods' and 95' pistons will suit you well. Then an additional $500~ in parts to complete the swap. You can also use your 2g head or get the better 1g head.

You can get the GVR4 engine, but it might be abused and the turbo might be damaged. Mileage will also vary. Isn't the GVR4 engine a 6-bolt? You should go ask them that as well.

Do you like the GP Green, L2R, or any other bigger turbo? Well if you do, your just going to get rid of the 16g and replace the injectors with bigger ones. If you think your not going to go bigger then the 16g, stick with the JDM engine. As it will be the cheapest route.

 

[Sb13104]

Well i dont exactly know how big i want to go turbo wise. I was thinking t3/t4 ball bearing originally. I guess i have to set goals first before i do anything. I know it has to be a daily driver. I don't want to get too crazy with tuning and have all kinds of problems. This is my one and only car. The built 6 bolt idea is looking better and better. Does Shepard have any warranties or anything? i dont want to pay 2500 for an engine and have it blow. That's why im drawn away from the JDM option. I don't know exactly what im getting then. With bolt on's and all supporting mods excluding major tuning, what are some general 1/4 times with say that big 16g? other turbo options?
Thanks alot, just a newbie trying to work my way in.

 

[Hobbes =^.^=]

For $2,500 he gives you the same exact engine he uses in his car, minus the knife-edged crank. Which you won't really need.

But I don't think you'll need such a beefy engine. Ask him if he could make a simple rebuild like the 1g rods, 95 pistons.

About warrenties, I've never heard a bad thing about his engines or trannys. His workmanship is top quality, and he is the only one who does the work. No one else. You are better off calling him up and asking him about some kind of warrenty. What he told me about my engine, is to test start it before putting it in. If it doesn't he will replace/fix it.

Forgot to add, for a price of a 6-bolt swap. This is how it breaks down.
$1,000 - $1,200 for the swap
$500~ for additional parts.

So expect to pay around $1,800 to swap in a 6-bolt. Try and find a DSM shop that has done one before as well.

I believe big 16g will put you around 12s low 13s. Depending on mods and how well you can drive.

 

[Sb13104]

Thanks for all the info everyone. Just got some tickets tonight so it will be a while for any mods. Damn 130 in a 60 and illegal street racing. It was worth it though. When i come up with the cash, i think im going with the built 6 bolt!

 

[Sb13104]

OK... i've come across something new. What about the 4g64 swap? They say there is no replacement for displacement. I wouldn't mind another .4 liters. What are some opinions on this option?

 

[DrZiplok]

The opinions on this are that you should stop asking questions and become good friends with this and other site's abilities to search old threads.

There are countless threads discussing engine swaps (used vs. built) and the '63 vs '64 issue as well.

Since I don't want to be bitchslapped for telling you that you're lazy, here's my take based on just that research:

- Buy a rebuilt motor. There are no significant differences between imported and domestic engines, and the domestic rebuilds are not substantially more expensive than a used motor. Conversely the local rebuilders do a very good job, compared with the total shot in the dark you're taking with a used motor.

- The 4g64 swap is not for the faint of heart. You either buy a fully built motor from one of a few vendors, or you build what will eventually be an almost custom job yourself. The former is expensive, the second is not something to undertake unless you're already convinced you will be successful. As many people are making absurd amounts of power with the stock 2.0l motor, going to 2.3 or 2.4 is more a matter of personal preference and financial excess than it is necessity.

Now, go read some more. 8)

 

[tallywacker]

If you decide with the JDM motor make sure it doesnt come out of an automatic. They will not bolt up to your tranny right. i got screwed like this and you dont know how hard it was to get them to pay to get that motor truck frieghted back to the importer. Good luck trying to find a lancer EVOI-III motor. If you can find one i have seen prices over $5,000 for them. 9.5:1 cast pistons, a 16g, and injectors is not worth it.

 

[JET]

There is no reason to get a JDM motor for a DSM. There is no advantage except that you might get a 16g, big deal. Get a US 6 bolt engine and get the 95 pistons like the guy above mentioned. Or spend just a little more money and get Wiseco pistons.

 

[Sb13104]

Thanx everybody, for your help. If and when i do decide to swap, i think i'll get the built 6 bolt. Have other things to worry about now though ( tickets and bald tires ). I appreciate all the help.


Thanks
-Sam