Turbo Buick G-Body Engine Swap

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86MonteSS

New Member
Joined
Mar 27, 2003
Messages
1
Hi,

I have an 86 Monte SS that I'm looking to swap a GN motor into. I know at this point, most people would suggest buying a GN, but I have the entire suspension/body done on the Monte w/ lots of goodies, plus an upgraded cooling system.

I've been debating on getting a 3.8 N/A block, putting a 4.1 l crank in it and rebuilding it and the heads w/ a GN rebuild kit. This leaves the problems of accessories and wiring (I'll get all the turbo plumbing custom bent or buy used). Are the accessory brackets in the same place on a non-turbo motor?

Any other advice? I already have an efi tank and walbro pump ready to go, and I can get the turbo for a pretty good price.

Thanks for the help.
 
Actually I think you'll find lots of people who think the conversion you are proposing would be very cool. I can't offer a lot of help, but keep checking back because others will. Welcome aboard. :)
 
Email me offline at the_dude_nj@yahoo.com
I can fill you in on all the ins and outs and what you will need to complete the swap. I did this on our Monte SS and will be doing another swap soon.
 
Your best bet is to find someone selling a complete setup out of a GN. You will see them in the for sale section here from time to time. Complete engine including turbo and intercooler with the wiring harness. Expect to pay a minimum of about $2500 for the setup with 90,000+ miles on it.
 
I think it's a GREAT idea. If I could "do it all over again" I'd have kept my 86 SS (hence my screen name) and put a GN drive train in it. Handled alot better than my GN and looked meaner. The Buick is far more comfy though.
 
go for it dood. I was gonna swap a motor in my Monte, a 383 stroker or a 3.8 Turbo, but wussed out and bought a 4th gen. :(

Should have never made that mistake.
 
Not certain, but I believe the accessory placement/brackets are all different between turbo and n/a motors, because the turbo occupies the whole passenger side of the motor and the IC and piping cover the front. So all accessories are on the driver's side of a turbo motor.

You'll also have to source an intake manifold from somewhere, along with headers, oil supply for the turbo, turbo-specific engine sensors, and misc. electronics and wiring. This is why most people recommend buying a complete turbo motor and wiring when doing hybrids. All the little pieces bought separately can add up to big $$$ real fast. In my case, I swapped everything over from a beater '86 T-type that I bought for $1900.

Otherwise, it sounds like you're on the right track and you've done your homework. There's lots of experience out there on these kinds of swaps. Sounds like a great project!
 
Your idea is a good one.I am thinking of doing the same.
Anyway.........
I have a complete engine that I may sell if you're intersted.
Or,if you just need some parts, (intake ,headers,brackets,ect) let me know.
email me direct. Don't reply here.

turbo6pak@yahoo.com

Where are you from?
 
WakkoSS, i always wanted to asked you what that meant.
As for looking meaner, Monte SS are girly looking cars for girly men! ;) ;) :D
That answers another question about you.

Scott
 
Originally posted by IrvJr
WakkoSS, i always wanted to asked you what that meant.
As for looking meaner, Monte SS are girly looking cars for girly men! ;) ;) :D
That answers another question about you.

Scott


lol...Wakko from the Animaniacs....SS for Super Sport. H&K for the a$$ whoopin I'm gonna give ya next time I see you!
 
LOL, dont get your Wonder Woman Underoos in a wad. Go play tea party somewhere and take a Midol and relax.;)

Scott

Whats H&K?
 
heh heh. H&K Heckler and Koch. They make the MP5 and the .40 that I wear to work every day. :)
 
Oh, I see. So you see a pistol whipping in my future, huh? Got an extra piece to plant on me too?

Scott
 
better be careful when your trying to smoke him lil sis and bubb rubb might come barreling through an intrersection. wooo wooo

-neil
 
I think we need some kind of removable whistle tip to take to car shows and let people think we're really THAT stupid. Or let the older folks go "what the hell was that" as we scream down the track.
 
AWESOME WAKKOSS im doing that to my 85 cutty this summer.... my post was beaten down by everyone.. can you forward any info to me Cimi4749@dowling.edu.. havent started yet... trying to work up the money and garage space lol
 
Next time we meet at any track we will line em up. We're racing for pinks......... margaritas that is.

Scott
 
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