What tools would I need...

[KevinG]

I am going to attempt to swap out the V6 motor in my camaro. I got a good deal on an engine with about 120,000 less miles!

My question, other than all of the appropriate sockets and such, what else will I need to do this?

What does everyone recommend for either going out the top or the bottom?

Which style engine hoist should I get?

[silicon212]

Are you doing a like-for-like swap? Or, are you converting to V8?

If it's a like-for-like, you'll basically need tools, a hoist (a crane type, or "cherry picker" is easiest to work with), oil, filter, oil catch pans, etc. I'd recommend using this time to install new belts, hoses and whatever can be replaced as a part of effective preventative maintenance. Don't think about bringing it through the bottom unless you know how to work with cutting torches and have no problem with molesting the hell out of your subframe.

[KevinG]

It's going to be a like for like swap. I am going to be putting in a cam while the engine is out.. So you suggest a cherry picker?

[Jcrane88]

a set of metric wrenchs, sockets and a ratchet.....and various extensions, u-joint and flex sockets....those are the basics..plus the stuff listed above there will always be various other tools i dont know what your workin on but on my 84 V6 i took it out the top... with the bellhousing bolts get a 18MM flex socket and at least a 6 and 12 inch extension 3/8 drive, 1/2 will take up precious space that you need...I broke one of my dads extension on this step...so i bought me some new craftsmen so i can break it all i want thats all the hints I have...good luck

[Jcrane88]

cherry picker is awfully useful ( mandatory)..im just not man enough to pick it up myself :'(

[philly rs]

thats going to be fun, i took out my 3800 on the rs an re-built her. if it werent for me having a shop to do it at i would have did the old cherry picker gig myself. unlike the lt1 or ls1 its a bit easier to get out of the car from the top. v8 cars are easier from the bottom (droping the k-member and all with the motor on it) ot taking the nose clip off the fron tof the car and pulling it out like that...and i have seen 3 people do it that way.. i also suggest plenty of beer, cause you'll need it. nice gloves, your knuckles will thank u. and a fine woman...because after the days u spend cussing and throwing shit in sheer pisstivity u will need a fine woman to help calm u down. other then that the best tool u can get is 2 good friends to help u out. good luck man

[Dyno247365]

Originally Posted by KevinG

It's going to be a like for like swap. I am going to be putting in a cam while the engine is out.. So you suggest a cherry picker?

I've always wanted to do that, work on the engine while it's out, otherwise it's a pain.

[Drewet88]

breaker bar....

[88camaroproject]

lol yes a very large breaker bar in fact. and a pipe to slide over a open end wrench for those bellhousing bolte. i had my feet on the wall and one hand on the motor and one on a open end wrench and it wasnt pretty when it finally broke free. i didnt care cause i was so tired from pushing so hard with my whole body that it felt good to fall

[wrightz28]

Originally Posted by 88camaroproject

. i didnt care cause i was so tired from pushing so hard with my whole body that it felt good to fall

That's when a breaker bar with a crowsfoot on it is your best friend

[balls_to_the_wall]

Air compressor and a quality impact and impact socket set.

*edit* What year is this maro?

[wrightz28]

Originally Posted by balls_to_the_wall

*edit* What year is this maro?

A '96 I believe.

[KevinG]

This is a '96 Camaro. Already have my breaker bar too.

[Drewet88]

and some bolt-out in case you strip a head or one is just a pain in the ass to get out...

quick link:
http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/searc...echanics+Tools

[skibum1111]

Don't forget beer. You're gonna need alot of that after you are done. But seriously, a good jack and a set of jack stands to put the car on. Making some room under the car makes it much easier to get the motor mounts, exhaust, and some of the bellhousing bolts out.