4th gen engine swap

Oklahoma is a ways from you, but not too far... This mobile mechanic: http://www.instagram.com/skimmilkhybrid/ used to do Gen3 to Gen4 engine swaps in people's driveways in one day for a $1500 charge. I think he charges more now. Also these days he's working on Gen3 rebuilds because he doesn't like the reliability of the JDM Gen4 engines. But if you can find a quality used Gen4 engine from a wrecker you're definitively within his service area.

 

I’d be more inclined to just do a head gasket job. If it turns out there’s a bent piston arm, or if you’ve got runaway oil consumption, and dependent ont cylinder wall condition, THEN consider either:

1. replacement pistons and rings
2. Short block replacement
3. Install of rebuilt 3rd Gen engine (say through Hybrid Pit Stop)

4th Gen engine engines have proven prone to overheating, and there’s never been a solid resolution to this.

do ensure the EGR system, including intake manifold, is thoroughly cleaned.

info in my signature; on a phone turn it landscape to see signatures.

 

It’s not really a complete gen4 swap. You end up using the gen3 intake, exhaust, egr system and wiring harness with custom mods. The cooling system is different on the smaller auxiliary lines going to the heater, exhaust recirc, egr and throttle body. Some call the result a Frankengine and there is no doubt the dealer wants nothing to do with it even afterwords when you might want repairs.

If you lived in OKC and the “mobile” swap guy was nearby, maybe a swap would be good. As I understand it, he works out of his house and distant callbacks became quite the challenge. Part of the problem is almost everything is used and could fail. It’s not like you are getting a new or even rebuilt engine with a Frankengine gen4/3.

So most pros and dealer mechanics recommend a rebuilt gen3 rather than a gen4 swap.