Newbie with some not so FAQs

[Brucelee]

"Engine
Any 283-350 Chevy small block V-8 will work, but the “F body” LT-1 is arguably the best motor for this application. These Chevy V-8 engines generally produce 250 horsepower and above, with streetable performance levels approaching 500 horsepower. The advantage of choosing the V-8 over the V-6 is a smoother running engine with less vibration and greater power. To further the advantages, the LT-1's out of a Camaro or Firebird actually have a compact enough fuel injection system and serpentine belt assembly that they fit under the stock hood without the use of a hood scoop. The installation of a V-8 engine results in some additional weight to the front of the vehicle. To compensate for the added weight, we recommend the use of heavier springs: 250 lbs. for the V-8.

Weight Distribution
Contrary to popular opinion, the superb handling characteristics of the 944 are not decreased by the addition of the V-8 powerplant. In normally aspirated versions of the 944, the weight distribution changes less than two percent. In the turbo cars, the change is less than 1.5 percent. A typical characteristic of a stock 944 is a slight "push" or understeer during acceleration. We have found that with the added weight of the V-8, the "push" condition actually diminishes. Furthermore, the more manageable torque and predictable horsepower allows the driver to easily transfer weight from front to rear allowing for increased car control. Quite simply it is much more fun to drive a converted 944."

Brucee

don't you have to pass a car with the local autorities if you change engine, and what happens with the insurance company?

in Europe you are not allowed to do something like that and just drive it, here the MOT is very strict and there is no way you would get insured except if it is granted after mechanical checks by the governement road and vehicle department

[Brucelee]

Each state has its own regs.

In CA, you have to put the same or newer engine in the car. I THINK that if one put a 98 LS1 in a 97 Boxster, you would be OK, but I would have to check that.

Originally Posted by olly986

Brucee

don't you have to pass a car with the local autorities if you change engine, and what happens with the insurance company?

in Europe you are not allowed to do something like that and just drive it, here the MOT is very strict and there is no way you would get insured except if it is granted after mechanical checks by the governement road and vehicle department

that seems to make sense, i fought your regulations were more strict, on the matter of the V8 anyway will it be easy enough to couple it with a Box gearbox?
engine swapping alone is not that simple to make a car work i guess

[Finallygottaporsche]

ok. im trying to be open minded here.

think about the service openings in a boxster. what are you gonna be able to access from there. ok now you wanna change plugs, change plug wires, head gasket etc. these things are serviced from underneath the boxster. if you have a v8 in there thats out the window. seems like you would have to remove the engine for basic service.