I need a new engine, help me choose what to get, 1994 Firebird Formula

[FFORMULA78]

I just got it a little over a month ago and we've been trying to fix it and it just isnt going to work out so im gonna just swap the engine out. It still runs but it has so many problems that we just are going to start with a different engine and see what happens. Not worth the time me and my mechanic are putting into it.

It is a 1994 Firebird Formula. Im pretty much screwed since i dont have too much money to replace it and its my only transportation right now.

What can i replace the engine with. What are my options. Ive heard about doing an LS1. Is that a direct bolt on or do i need to get other things to make it compatible with my car. What are the main things to think about when doing an engine swap? Like, im sure there are specific things you could tell me that might trip us up when we are swaping it.

I'd rather do an LS1, but not if its much more complicated than doing an LT1 swap. Also might change the tranny from Automatic to Manual while we are in there. What is the best route to go with that ?

Also, what are some good places to get myself a used engine? I was going to check out some junk yards, check out ebay and also see if anyone has one on this forum but im open to suggestions.

Thank you in advance for your suggestions.

[cybercide]

damn...

I was wondering how that turned out but now I take it you ended up getting screwed by that dealer.

what happened?


http://forum.camarov6.com/showthread.php?t=80206

[FFORMULA78]

Re: damn...

well, i brought it back and they repaired it but it has the same problem again. Were not sure what it is but my mech. thinks its a cracked block or head. both heads have been previously worked on. it drives but the coolant comes out and it aint gonna get better on its own.

im gonna go back to the dealership or to the guy who fixed it and see what they can do. the guy is willing to work on it some more but i mean, he isnt gonna want to fix it every two weeks and im sure they wont want to replace the engine so im just exploring my options in case. technically, the problem started within the warranty period so i think i could probably take them to court if i had to, but who knows. in the mean time, i still need a car that runs, even if i have to pay for the repair.

if i was a scum bag, i would just have the guy repair it and try to sell it quick, but thats just not right. Plus, i really want the car, just as long as its fixed :( ive seen some engines on ebay between 900.00 used - 1700.00 new/rebuilt. my mechanic would do the work real cheap or for almost nothing.

not sure what to do. i guess you get what you pay for

[cybercide]

Re: damn...

that sucks!

how many miles are on your formula? (and how much $?)

maybe find a wrecked low milage part car?

[FFORMULA78]

Re: damn...

that sucks!

how many miles are on your formula? (and how much $?)

maybe find a wrecked low milage part car?

yea im gonna check out the junk yards tomorrow and see what i can find.

Ive seen a bunch of engines on ebay. Can you tell me if any of these will work and what else i'd need to make it work if not. maybe i can find a 350 engine from another car that will fit ??

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1994-...QQcmdZViewItem

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/95-IM...QQcmdZViewItem

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/LT1-E...QQcmdZViewItem

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Chevy...QQcmdZViewItem


If you guys see anything else out there, PLEASE let me know. Im trying to get the engine as cheap as possible. Maybe one of you guys can sell me your engine and get a bigger motor or something?

[vanbibber]

Re: damn...

sounds like the perfect time to build a 383 lt1 to me

[vanbibber]

Re: damn...

btw, ls1 isnt a direct job but its not that bad from what ive heard. you need the tranny,pcm and harness. im not 100% sure but you should be able to use the same motor mounts.

if it were me, id just take it to a performance shop, have them tear it down and stroke the lt1. more power for the same money as a stock ls1 swap would cost.

[David8399]

Re: I need a new engine, help me choose what to get, 1994 Firebird Formula

you have a 3.4 not lt1 correct. the 3.4 had a problem with the lower intake gaskets leaking and letting coolant to leak in the cylinders, make sure if they change yours they are a seafoam green color. and as far as engines go gm ran a specail on ls1 just recently and the cost was $2500 some dealers got them mine did not, the lt1 are like 5000 and the 3.4 are like 2300-2400

[vanbibber]

Re: I need a new engine, help me choose what to get, 1994 Firebird Formula

he has a formula, not a 3.4

[Tom Rs]

Re: I need a new engine, help me choose what to get, 1994 Firebird Formula

i believe the fuel system needs to be changed with an ls1 swap

[FFORMULA78]

Re: I need a new engine, help me choose what to get, 1994 Firebird Formula

The LS1 idea was just a thought. i wasnt sure if it was a direct replacement, thats why i was asking. i basically just want to get an LT1 to swap out into my car. The heads & block.

can you tell me which year z28 & trans am engines will fit? Is it basically any 350/LT1 will work? Ive seen LT1's in Caprices and other cars if i recall. Are they good or a pain in the *** to make them fit? Like is a 1996z28 engine fine or does it take modifications,etc. to make it work