Northstar Grand Prix

DCanady · #1 06-10-2006, 11:51 AM

Hello all, I have a question hopefully someone will be able to answer. I have a 02 Gran Prix GT. I have seen all the upgrades available for it, But I want a V-8 grumble also. Well the question is, is it possible to swap a Cadillac northstar into my GP. If so has it been done, or would it be easier and less expensive to just purchase a Cadi Seville STS? Any feedback would be appreciated.

GTP Dad · #2 06-10-2006, 06:45 PM

You would do well to purchase the Cadillac. It would be a lot easier on your bank account. You would need the engine, a new computer, wiring harness, exhaust, custom engine mounts, probably new fuel lines, fuel pump and of course a new transmission. There is also a possibility that the engine would not fit once you started change out. If it has been done in the past it was probably a major undertaking. Of course anything is possible if you throw enough money at it.

DCanady · #3 06-10-2006, 09:50 PM

Thanks alot, I'll probably find other ways of getting horsepower and that grumble with my 3.8.

Decipha · #4 06-12-2006, 06:01 AM

dcanady... from working at a mechanic shop i can tell you personally the northstar engines aren't the greatest... don't take my word for it just ask any one who owns or has owned one

richtazz · #5 06-12-2006, 12:16 PM

I would agree with that comment Decipha. Like any GM overhead cam engine, they run strong when new, but are problematic, impossible to work on turds as they age. Who is the genius that decided to put the starter in the center of the engine under the intake on that engine?

jessep28 · #6 06-12-2006, 01:03 PM

Probably the same one that designed the 4th gear clutch splines and PCS for the 4T65E for all we know

richtazz · #7 06-12-2006, 01:29 PM

.....and GM's wonderful intake gaskets.

Decipha · #8 06-12-2006, 06:20 PM

gotta love them gm intake gaskets... teh loverly (mah a$$)

jessep28 · #9 06-12-2006, 10:08 PM

and the blower motor resistor.

jessep28 · #10 06-12-2006, 10:14 PM

On the starter, they probably were done designing the engine and had a oh s**t moment and realized that it lacked a starter. So they just "threw it in there."

Decipha · #11 06-12-2006, 10:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jessep28

On the starter, they probably were done designing the engine and had a oh s**t moment and realized that it lacked a starter. So they just "threw it in there."

LMAO he's probably right

richtazz · #12 06-13-2006, 04:05 PM

Actually, this is a good story. I talked to a GM engineer friend of mine, and here was his answer to that question. GM sent out questionaires back when the Northstar was being developed to former Caddy owners, and owners of other luxury brands that Caddy was trying to catch. They asked a bunch of questions, about many things including mechanical. The number one written in response (over 40%) involving the driveline was about the noise the starter makes. GM decided to tuck the starter inside the engine to quiet the sound, so it wouldn't be so noticeable to these pompous asses. Is that not the stupidest thing you've ever heard of!!!!!

Decipha · #13 06-13-2006, 04:45 PM

thats just dumb... so exactly what all needs to be removed to replace it?

jessep28 · #14 06-14-2006, 12:11 AM

You get a double punch for GM and dealers there.

1) The starter doesn't make as much noise, so you sell more cars
2) The starter is in a PITA location. Therefore after warranty is up, they will take Northstar with starter problems to dealer and have to pay for more labor.

1typhoon · #15 06-14-2006, 03:28 PM

I have owned 3 Caddy STS's with the Northstar. A 93, 98 and currently an '01. A bullit proof engine and no problems with any of them except the 93 which I did replace the starter at 160,000 miles! Easier than other GM cars and you don't have to crawl under the car and fight with it. You just pop off the intake which takes all of 15 minutes and the starter is staring you in the face. Very easy.

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