engine rebuild 3.8l 2001

[rjinmt]

well my wifes grand prix has reached 196000miles and I have seen a lot of metal in the transmission and since I have to take out the engine to get to transmission. I decide it is getting totally rebuilt.....and I figured everyone can talk(chat) about about upgrades and improvements that can be done to try and make this a "better" running engine. So if you can think of things that could be done please suggest it..like type of pistons or transmision clutches..

[rkvons]

Originally Posted by rjinmt

well my wifes grand prix has reached 196000miles and I have seen a lot of metal in the transmission and since I have to take out the engine to get to transmission. I decide it is getting totally rebuilt.....and I figured everyone can talk(chat) about about upgrades and improvements that can be done to try and make this a "better" running engine. So if you can think of things that could be done please suggest it..like type of pistons or transmision clutches..

Just my two cents, but if I was going to put an engine in your vehicle and I wanted to ensure that it was going to last a long time, I would put the exact one in there that got you to 196000 miles and is still running strong. Again, just my two cents.

[grandprixgtx00]

Just my as well, but why replace the motor when it's still running? If it aint broke, don't fix it! You can easily get 300k+ miles out of a 3800. Just ask a few members here. Also, why are you removing the motor to change the transmission? I've always just propped the engine up and dropped the K Frame.

Also, for the transmission, I'd suggest at least putting a hardened 4th clutch shaft (click link) since those are a weak point on the 4t65e.

[GTP Dad]

You don't say if this is a normally aspirated 3.8 or a supercharged one. If you have 196K on the engine and the transmission needs work you may be better off replacing them both at the same time. While I realize that "if it ain't broke don't fix it" applies in most cases this one may be an exception. With that high of mileage you will be pulling the engine apart sooner or later so if you are undertaking major repairs do them both at once and save yourself time and money.

You can purchase an engine transmission combination from Ed Morad at moradpartscompany.com for a good price. Of course they will be used but are usually low mileage. You should be able to purchase both from him for less that it would cost to rebuild the current engine. Ultimately the decision is yours!