Did you find any solid engines around there for ~$1000? This swap could be the cheapest V8 swap for 4Runners and Tacos since the trans is the same. And since you offered to help, I know it would be the cheapest for me. You couldn't be more than 2 hours away from me.

 

Well, it's hard to say as far as a "solid" engine when talking used. That's why I always recommend a rebuild unless you get it at a salvage yard that you can see the engine in the car before it's pulled. That way you can check milage and the condition of everything.

My suggestion would be save some money, buy a cheap one......I can find you one for $400 or less. Have it rebuilt and then we can talk about dropping it in. You could also check with the company that Cebby refered me to for a whole front clip. Or find a US spec front clip.

I personally hate to bring up options like this......have you spend money on an engine, ECU, wiring harness and custom bell housing and the 2months later the engine throw a rod or spin a bearing. These engines are old engines and it's hard to find one that I'd be willing to put in my car without a rebuild. The pre-VVT-i 1UZ-FE ranges anywhere from '90-97. TAP has one with 51K miles ($1500) on it.....alot of people here don't like them though.....I've nothing but good experiences with them......theydo lack alot in knowledge department though.

Do some research before you commit to anything......I'd say expect to spend at least $3000 with a rebuild.

Also, you're about 6 hrs from me.

 

you know, you might think im crazy, but i would think doing it in a RWD celica would be a lot less hassle. yes, they arent that pretty, since they're pretty boxy, but you wouldnt have to bang and cut under the car to fit the rear diff. if you really like the newer celica bodies, get an alltrac frame and convert it from AWD to RWD. (i believe thats what the other guy did in his Celica V8) as for the engine, if you like V8s, go for it. but i'd opt for a 7MGTE, since you've expected $3000+ anyhow. 7MGTE's make quite a bit of power with minimal modifications.

 

There are several reasons why I want to do this in my '93 GT. First being that even with an All-Trac, you still have to cut the tranny tunnel the same amount........I have pictures.

The reason as to not put a 1UZ-FE in my '83 Celica......well, for one the engine was just rebuilt weeks ago.....it's sitting out in the shop waiting to be put in. The other reason is because I'd still have the same cost involved because of the solid rear axle, which would not stay. That car is tail happy with the 22RE pushing it, let alone a huge 1UZ-FE. It has to have IRS.

The reason for not going with the 7M-GTE. Well, you mentioned cost. I'd spend more to get a 7M-GTE and rebuild it than I would to get the 1UZ-FE and rebuild it. Parts for 7M-GTEs, 2JZ-GTEs, 3S-GTEs and 4A-GZEs are all expensive as all hell. The aftermarket knows that these engines are what everyone is using. The torque is also an issue. Not that it's anything to scaff at, but the 1UZ-FE is pushing out WAY more toque. I also figure if I'm going to have to cut my car up, go all the way.

Anyway, there are lots of options that I could do really, but I like the idea of all of that torque in such a light car. To be honest, I can make as much HP with the 5S engine, but what fun is that? I think everyone here is about doing the cheap or easy way. That's fine for my 4Runner....that's why I'm doing just a head swap rather than a 2JZ or 2/3L swap. The Celica has no rules. I already know how I'm going to set-up the turbos too.......it'll run like a supercharger......there should be almost zero turbo lag and it should make up to 24psi boost. It's an experimental set-up that Garret is suppose to be testing. Anyway......Those are all of the reasons......might not makes sense, but that's ok. It'll ,ake all the sense in the world when I'm blowing the doors off my friends 911.