Just bought an 01 base and want more power, how easy to swap in 3.2s

[2013grandsport]

So whats involved in putting the 3.2 s engine in my car? Theyre so cheap on ebay, cheaper than the 3.4 996 engine although less power at 250 vs 296.

Is it basically bolt in?

[oc-boxster]

I wouldn't bother doing an engine swap, sell the base you just bought and add the money you have laying around for an engine and buy a 2003-4 S model. You'll get better brakes and suspension that way too.

[2013grandsport]

touche, still interested because the engines can be had for 3k. I paid 7900 for this car with 69K miles. Clean as can be.

[BYprodriver]

Originally Posted by 2013grandsport

So whats involved in putting the 3.2 s engine in my car? Theyre so cheap on ebay, cheaper than the 3.4 996 engine although less power at 250 vs 296.

Is it basically bolt in?

Yes it is a direct R&R swap as they are basicly identical externally. It will run fine but make more power if you get the engine computer tuned with the 3.2 program.

A good 3.2 is worth at least $5,000 so have it checked out before installing.

[2013grandsport]

and where can I get the 3.2 tune? will i need the boxster s ecu or can I use mine? Also, are the water pumps the same for both engine, and serpentine belts?

[kjc2050]

But isn't the cooling system significantly different on the S, hence the 3rd radiator?

[Luv2Box]

Originally Posted by 2013grandsport

So whats involved in putting the 3.2 s engine in my car? Theyre so cheap on ebay, cheaper than the 3.4 996 engine although less power at 250 vs 296.

Is it basically bolt in?

The "easiest" way to do it is to buy a motor and the ECU that came with it. A good swap would be to find an '01 996 3.4 and ECU then you'd have some hp. You will have to add a third radiator and S front bumper. Don't know what brakes you have but if you don't have the S Big Reds I'd put them on because what goes faster needs bigger brakes to stop it. You will also need someone who has done it before to make certain all the suspension parts are up to the added hp.
I don't know where you live but you might also check to see if it is legal in your state to swap the motor or if you need a permit to do it. Another reason to let a shop that has done it before do it as they know, or should know, any legal ramifications.
When you total up the costs I'd have to agree with oc-boxster.

[BYprodriver]

Originally Posted by 2013grandsport

and where can I get the 3.2 tune? will i need the boxster s ecu or can I use mine? Also, are the water pumps the same for both engine, and serpentine belts?

Your OE ecu can be reprogrammed with any of the OE programs available that year by anyone with a OE Porsche diagnostic tool (PST2 or PWIS) & your DME programming codes, obtainable thru a authorized Porsche dealer. Dealer should do this for about $100. All external bolt-on parts are interchangable.

[silver-S]

What he said. Don't forget the third radiator!

[Brad Roberts]

Super easy swap We probably do one a month.. and unless the car is going to be tracked? No need for the larger S water lines and 3rd radiator. It will run fine on the 2.7 program, but really comes alive with the stock 3.2 program

986 BoxsterS' out here in good shape are 10-12K.. with 80-100kmi. on them

[Idaho Red Rocket 3]

Home garage swap = a lot of swearing and waisted money. Do it right. Sell the base - buy an S. Or keep the base and buy an S like I did. Then sell the base when the time is right. Really fun having 2 Boxsters.

[Jamesp]

Buying an S buys better brakes etc. If you do make a swap, why stop at a 3.2? You might get more HP for similar effort with more displacement.