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topswap question

MakeitLouder97

MakeitLouder97

New member
I have been reading up on topswaping I have a 97 gt that i would like to topswap and i have a few questions
1. What parts would I need
2. Cost
3. Tools
now i understand that the tranny in the car is trash but would it be possible to keep it in (I will replace it in the near future but I dont think i can do all of it at once)
(keep in mind im getting ready to go college and this will be a summer project)
Any help
 


if you drive it everyday: dont do it. itll never run well again.

also, your tranmission is junk.
 


Twice the budget...and 4 times for you since you'd have to put a better transmission in it since yours is the 4T60E...a vacuum powered POS that has less durability than the hoover in my basement.
 
I dont plan on going with the gen V I was goning to go with the Gen III if thats the problem but im looking to add power and this seemed like the best way
 


To answer your questions, first read this:
http://www.grandprixforums.net/top-swap-info-faqs-also-lots-3800-info-7763.html

then this:
http://www.grandprixforums.net/safely-modding-your-3800-powered-car-17482.html

If that doesnt answer your questions...
1.Heads from SC motor (Either Series will do, all the blocks are the came so all the heads can be interchanged)
Head Bolts, can be OEM replacements or Studs, up to you(Stock are Torque to Yield(one time use)
Thread Sealer (the head bolts go into the coolant jacket, and if they aren't sealed, they will weap coolant out)
Head Gaskets
Rocker boltsSame reason as the head bolts
Valve Cover Gaskets
Harmonic Balancer From the SC motor
Tensioner for SC belt
Idlers for Sc beltThese require bolts that aren't on the L26/L36
Coil Pack BracketThe tensioner and one of the idlers bolt to the SC Coil bracket (some 97 and 98 cars may not need a different bracket)
Lower Intake Manifold from the SC motor(The bolts are the same, so you can use your old LIM bolts if needed)
Lower intake Manifold Gaskets(the Aluminum ones are the Best)
Fuel Rail(you need the one that matches your fuel system, 97-03 gets the standard rail, while 04+ needs the return-less)
Fuel InjectorsAre not a requirement, but you should run the SC injectors or better flowing units
**Injector connectors may be required on some years
Supercharger
Supercharger Gasket(If you use a Gen III M90 you need O-rings as well)
Supercharger Belt
Throttle Body from SC motor(This isn't required but recommended)
Throttle Body Gasket
Colder Thermostat I Recommend 180*, but that is all personal preference
1 Step Cooler Spark PlugsUsually recommended for the Top Swap
Fluids Oil(a change needs to be done after Swap and before engine is started) Coolant(you will loose a good amount doing the Swap)
Oil Filter For above change
Tuned PCM Stock Gt settings are way too aggressive for a SC application, I suggest a tuner, but if you don't have time, a Canned tune can work
Exhaust Manifold Gaskets (optional)

2.I'm up to about $1100 as my estimate. But almost $200 of that is shipping. You should be able to find an HD tranny for around $300. they're not too bad.

3.you'll need basic socket set, torque wrench, harmonic balancer puller tool, and probably a soldering iron for wiring the MAP sensor.
 


Only benefit to the HD is it has a slightly stronger differential.... that will still shred if you abuse it.

It also has a lower gear ratio which means less performance... 3.29's are ideal, the 2.93's you find with most HD tranny's are not.

Summary, dont get an HD tranny... Unless you're getting it rebuilt and having 3.29's thrown in.
 
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