1997 GTP engine block swap

joker1s · #1 10-26-2007, 02:09 PM

I have a 1997 gtp with roughly about 280,000 on it. Recently I came across a 1996 3.8 series 2 engine (freebie). I was wondering if I would be able to use just the block and keep all the good stuff on top without blowing it up. The only mod I have so far is the 3.4 pulley, but if the block would work I wanted to add a cam. Thanks for the help.

richtazz · #2 10-26-2007, 02:48 PM

The GTP motors actually use a lower compression piston than the series-II 3800, to help eliminate knock at high boost. Combining that with your 3.4" pulley could cause you a lot of headaches without a lot of other supporting mods.

joker1s · #3 10-27-2007, 12:30 AM

What other type of mods would I need to do in order to make it as reliable as what I have now, and also alot more fun

GTP Dad · #4 10-27-2007, 11:37 AM

I have to agree with Rich that if you use this block with your current heads and supercharger you will probably have some issues and possibly end up damaging the freebie block. If you really insist on performance mods try a reprogrammed PCM (about $99) from DHP. Also a set of headers would be a good idea along with a high flow cat and open exhaust. Another mod that would be easy to do would be to change rocker ratio since the engine will be out anyway. A cam would be costly but could give you a lot of performance upgrades. Of course this would require colder plugs for best performance and decreased KR. Oh yea! one more thing don't forget the cold air intake.

joker1s · #5 10-27-2007, 11:49 AM

Thanks for the input, I think I'll stick with the original engine and do the mods that are suggested. One more thing, is taking the engine .030 over going to affect anything. I'm thinking with this many miles on it would be a good time to rebuild.

tblake · #6 10-27-2007, 12:08 PM

Do you have a place you can buy .030" over pistons and rings?

eippermx · #7 10-28-2007, 12:15 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by joker1s

Thanks for the input, I think I'll stick with the original engine and do the mods that are suggested. One more thing, is taking the engine .030 over going to affect anything. I'm thinking with this many miles on it would be a good time to rebuild.

My 2 cents worth:
If you don't have enough dinero, for both the mods and engine, I'm agree with your thinking to knock out the engine first and rebuild it. While you have stripped it down, if you live in a tough smog state like Cali - perform the internal mods that the smog man can't catch. For example swap the cam, roller rockers, push rods, etc. for better performance.

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