3.6L 996 Engine Swap

[insite]

the swap is actually not all that difficult. it's tricky getting the computer programmed right since there are so many versions. the only really tough part about putting the motor in is the fact that the intake plenums sit higher in the engine bay, so the motor mounts must be lowered 2" to do this. FVD makes a kit.

anyway, you are basically looking at 5-6K plus the cost of your motor (anywhere from 6 to 15k for an e-gas version to match your boxster). 3-4k of this price includes 1500 for the computer programming, 1200 for modified headers (to mate w/ stock exhaust route) and a couple thousand for 'unknowns' like broken injectors, coil packs, etc. on your motor (you buy a used motor, stuff's bound to get broken during removal / shipping).

the result, though, is a pretty serious machine.

[Brucelee]

Great info, thanks for helping!

[Morelli]

Thanks for the kind responses guys. It didn't take long, but I have all but ruled this one out. There is still a chance, of course...anything is possible, but the resale point is very true. When I was younger, I built a 400hp+ Honda, and lost my ass on it. Literally. I don't want to go down that road again. I'm not sure which way to go, the F355 is within reason, but as a daily driver, the maintenence would kill me. Of course, this leaves me with the 996.

Actually, what is the maintenence like on a 996 turbo?

[Brucelee]

Actually, 996 Turbo is a doable deal. The engine has proven to be MORE reliable than the base 996 engine. And, from first hand experience, it is a BLAST to drive. Marginally more expensive to maintain than a regular 911.

Very very nice car, I would highly recommend one, and the resale has held up rather well.

[Morelli]

I'm pricing them out right now. I don't want to make the move until the third quarter I think, but I am just doing some prospecting right now...

[Brucelee]

BTW- I am located in Carlsbad and I deal in pre-owned Porsches. If you want, I can help you find a cherry Turbo. Let me know if I can assist and I will be happy to do so.

[Morelli]

Well then, we may just have to rendezvous later this year.

I'll be around the forum, when the time comes, I'll contact you, I'm in Los Angeles.

[clubhead]

Originally Posted by Morelli

I'm pricing them out right now. I don't want to make the move until the third quarter I think, but I am just doing some prospecting right now...

What about the GT3? It's quite an awesome car without the maintenance hassel of a turbo... It's cheaper anyway than the turbo

[GTeener]

Originally Posted by insite

the swap is actually not all that difficult. it's tricky getting the computer programmed right since there are so many versions. the only really tough part about putting the motor in is the fact that the intake plenums sit higher in the engine bay, so the motor mounts must be lowered 2" to do this. FVD makes a kit.

anyway, you are basically looking at 5-6K plus the cost of your motor (anywhere from 6 to 15k for an e-gas version to match your boxster). 3-4k of this price includes 1500 for the computer programming, 1200 for modified headers (to mate w/ stock exhaust route) and a couple thousand for 'unknowns' like broken injectors, coil packs, etc. on your motor (you buy a used motor, stuff's bound to get broken during removal / shipping).

the result, though, is a pretty serious machine.

I am VERY interested in this swap. We've got a 1998 stock Boxster that we'd like to swap engines. We even have the engine. We found an enthusiastic mechanic before we bought the engine, but then he flaked...

The 5K is about what we expect to finish the job. We just can't find anyone to do it.

Have you actually done one of these swaps successfully with a 996 3.6L engine?

If not, do you know of a reputable shop on the West Coast that has a lot of experience with this conversion?

Please advise.
Thanks!