This is where an engine swap comes into play. Engine swaps are a popular way to modify a car more to your liking, but you may have already been influenced by some of the most prevalent myths about the process without even realizing it. Keep the following details in mind as you consider your prospective engine swap.
What Is an Engine Swap?
You may be planning on an engine swap without quite realizing that that is what the process is called. An engine swap is the practice of removing the current engine in your car and installing a different one instead. The new one does not have to be newer than your old engine; in fact, some older models are highly sought after. The right engine for you will be determined by what you hope to accomplish, but for many people, common engines like the LS work just fine.
Myth 1: LS Engines Work With Any Car
Speaking of LS engines, many people do not spend much time thinking about exactly which engine they would like to use because they are under the assumption that the LS will work with their car—without checking. LS engines are highly useful for a wide range of swaps, but they are not compatible with every car.
You should always check to make sure that the type of vehicle you are working with can accept the type of engine that you have selected before you go out of your way to make a purchase. It is true that you can modify some of the interior workings of your vehicle to make an engine fit, but you will need to remember the basics, like whether the engine will fit into the bay at all.
Myth 2: Engine Swapping Is a Cheap Way to Get a Better Car
Engine swaps are a passion project, and even though some engines can be acquired for relatively little cost, the most common “$500 figure” that people toss out as the cost for a swap is not well founded.
Expect to pay closer to $1000 for your average engine—or more if you are going for something rare or niche—and then add on the cost of additional required parts to make it fit, as well as any labor costs if you are not doing the project yourself.
Myth 3: Engine Swaps Are Great DIY Projects
In the vein of tackling this project on your own, engine swaps can be a fun challenge for those who enjoy spending their time in the car mod hobby. However, engine swaps are not necessarily simple, with multiple potential roadblocks along the way, from fit to function. If you get stuck during your engine swap, or if you would rather not take this project on by yourself, there is no shame in asking the experts.
Myth 4: Replacing Your Engine Will Give You More Power
A new engine does not necessarily equal more power—though it can. You will need to compare your current engine to the one that you intend to install in order to do the math on which engine will produce more power, fuel efficiency and so on. This is a mathematics game.
Myth 5: You Need to Plan to Replace Your Transmission When You Swap Your Engine
Many types of swaps will allow you to keep your transmission as-is. Again, do your research on the engine you want to use before you begin so that you can be prepared for any modifications that must take place. These could include buying an adapter for your transmission, adjusting the oil pan or exhaust or even tilting the mounting angle so that the engine does not rattle.
Trust the Engine Swap and Auto Body Experts to Help You Accomplish Your Swap Goals
Whether you are just looking for some guidance in the middle of your engine swap or you would like to leave this project to the pros instead of tackling it yourself, make sure that you have established a relationship with a trustworthy swap and auto body shop.
The experts at Robs Customs & Restorations would be happy to walk you through the process, from choosing the right engine and parts to getting everything installed safely and correctly. Reach out to tell us more about your project and goals.
