LS Power Upgrade: V8 Engine Swap Showdown

TLDRWe pit an $8,000 junkyard V8 engine swap against a $30,000 crate V8 engine swap. Does more expensive mean more better? Let's find out.

Key insights

🔥We're swapping V8 engines into two Nissan 350Z cars to increase power and reliability.

🛠️Hi Team is installing a brand new 6.2 liter Chevy LS3525 engine with $10,000 of additional parts.

🚜Low Team is using a used 6.0 liter Chevy LQ9 engine pulled from a truck, but with $5,000 worth of parts for compatibility.

🚗We're aiming for both cars to have around 400 horsepower and improved reliability.

⚙️There are some challenges and modifications required for proper fit, including custom engine mounts and transmission adaptation.

Q&A

What are the power differences between the two engines?

The Hi Car has a more expensive, brand new engine and additional parts, which should result in better performance. The Low Car has a used engine with modifications, but still aims for around 400 horsepower.

What challenges are encountered during the engine swap?

There are some issues with clearance and fit, requiring modifications to the oil pan, headers, and other parts to make everything fit properly.

Are additional modifications required to make the Chevy engine work in a Nissan 350Z?

Yes, there are about $5,000 worth of parts required to make the Chevy engine compatible with the Nissan, including an adapter plate and custom mounts.

How does the LS3525 engine compare to the LQ9 engine?

The LS3525 is a brand new, high-performance engine with greater power potential, while the LQ9 is a used engine with modifications. Both aim for around 400 horsepower.

What is the timeline for completing the engine swap?

The goal is to have both engines fully assembled and ready for installation within a day or two, in order to meet the deadline for the custom exhaust fitting.

Timestamped Summary

00:09We're swapping V8 engines into two Nissan 350Z cars to increase power and reliability.

01:12Hi Team is installing a brand new 6.2 liter Chevy LS3525 engine with $10,000 of additional parts.

01:36Low Team is using a used 6.0 liter Chevy LQ9 engine pulled from a truck, but with $5,000 worth of parts for compatibility.

02:20We're aiming for both cars to have around 400 horsepower and improved reliability.

02:33There are some challenges and modifications required for proper fit, including custom engine mounts and transmission adaptation.