3.2L swap into base 986
 

Hello All,

I have a 2001 Base 986 that has a cylinder with low compression (bad intake valve). I really dont feel like going thru the hassle of having the engine rebuilt, and since I am fairly mechanically inclined I was considering just swapping in a new engine. There is a local salvage yard with a 2.7L with 50k miles on it that is in good shape, but I figured if I was going thru the trouble of doing a swap, why not put a 3.2L from the S model in.****

Heres my question: if I get a 3.2L from a 2000-2002 S, is it a direct swap into the base model outside of reflashing the DME? I have been searching the forums and Pelican Parts DIY articles and could not come to a conclusive answer. I was planning on doing the clutch/IMS while I was at it.****

Thanks!

2000 and 2001, yes. 2002 is a little different.
There was a thread about the coolant temp sensor that came up recently that discusses the 2 pin connector vs the 4 pin connector and how to re-wire it. The 2002 model has a non-return fuel system vs a return system in the 2000 and 2001 - 2002 has the fuel pressure regulator inside the sending unit in the tank.

For the 2002 3.2L into a 2000 S replacement that I'm hoping to wrap up soon, I just swapped the whole wire harness (sensor), intake, and fuel rail/ injectors from the engine that was being replaced.

There will be a few other things to swap over if the engine you install is from a Tiptronic, but no compatibility issues other than parts from the old engine.

If I get it right, the same MY is fine, right?
So if my 2.7 is 2003 it would take a 2003 3.2 engine?

This article makes interesting reading...
https://www.pelicanparts.com/techarticles/Boxster_Tech/11-ENGINE-911_Engine_Swap/11-ENGINE-911_Engine_Swap.htm