Different engine swap question
Thread Starter
Advanced
Joined: Apr 2019
Posts: 89
Likes: 43
From: Johnstown, Pa
Different engine swap question
Hello
I have a question I don't think has been asked before. I'd like to upgrade my c4 with a better performing small block. I understand the TPI system is a cork. In theory, if I had better heads and an aftermarket injection like a a stealth ram, or the system that TPIS sells can the stock computer run it? If not, can an aftermarket system be integrated in my car so I have functional gauges?
I had an LS in my TA, it was awesome. But, I have a 6 speed. I have no desire to replace the entire drive train on the car. I have no illusions about keeping up with a modern car. Just would like to avoid being embarrassed by the wife's Flex with the 3.5 turbo motor.
Be gentle guys. It was just a question...
I have a question I don't think has been asked before. I'd like to upgrade my c4 with a better performing small block. I understand the TPI system is a cork. In theory, if I had better heads and an aftermarket injection like a a stealth ram, or the system that TPIS sells can the stock computer run it? If not, can an aftermarket system be integrated in my car so I have functional gauges?
I had an LS in my TA, it was awesome. But, I have a 6 speed. I have no desire to replace the entire drive train on the car. I have no illusions about keeping up with a modern car. Just would like to avoid being embarrassed by the wife's Flex with the 3.5 turbo motor.
Be gentle guys. It was just a question...
Team Owner
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 28,475
Likes: 3,291
From: Hartford WI
Hello
I have a question I don't think has been asked before. I'd like to upgrade my c4 with a better performing small block. I understand the TPI system is a cork. In theory, if I had better heads and an aftermarket injection like a a stealth ram, or the system that TPIS sells can the stock computer run it? If not, can an aftermarket system be integrated in my car so I have functional gauges?
I had an LS in my TA, it was awesome. But, I have a 6 speed. I have no desire to replace the entire drive train on the car. I have no illusions about keeping up with a modern car. Just would like to avoid being embarrassed by the wife's Flex with the 3.5 turbo motor.
Be gentle guys. It was just a question...
I have a question I don't think has been asked before. I'd like to upgrade my c4 with a better performing small block. I understand the TPI system is a cork. In theory, if I had better heads and an aftermarket injection like a a stealth ram, or the system that TPIS sells can the stock computer run it? If not, can an aftermarket system be integrated in my car so I have functional gauges?
I had an LS in my TA, it was awesome. But, I have a 6 speed. I have no desire to replace the entire drive train on the car. I have no illusions about keeping up with a modern car. Just would like to avoid being embarrassed by the wife's Flex with the 3.5 turbo motor.
Be gentle guys. It was just a question...
Team Owner
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 28,475
Likes: 3,291
From: Hartford WI
Not sure what to do. If he wants more power, would a gear change on a D36 be worth it? Or maybe bite the bullet and get a D44 with the right gear and swap it when time and money permits?
Le Mans Master
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 6,192
Likes: 750
From: near the thumb in the mitten
If it's an auto with a 2.59 it would. 3.07. Widely available and sometimes inexpensive.The 84 only used a D36 and had an optional 3.31. 84 batwing does use different camber arm bracket bolts, so it's not necessary. A gear change in a D36 will be close in cost to a D44 change over. I would look for a 3.45 or 3.54 for just a bolt in swap.
Thread Starter
Advanced
Joined: Apr 2019
Posts: 89
Likes: 43
From: Johnstown, Pa
Stealth Ram means you have to cut a hole in the hood. You game? As far as running it goes, what is your definition of "running"? I had some hesitation at WOT with a set of Accel Tri-Y headers and the Superram on a stock L98. Brought it to Lingenfelter and he reprogrammed the thing and it was gone. It worked but not good enough for my liking. So if you are finicky, it might not work. You might be able to get away with it for a while until you decide to let someone update the program to reflect the changes.
Let me ask the question differently. Is there a small block combo that works? I want it to idle and be driveable. I was into these things when they were new. I know the TPI system is a major limitation. Is there an aftermarket injection that works well? Or, for the folks that went down this route the last 25 years found that the combo tops out at a certain number and anything after that requires a LS etc. swap? It will need to be NA. Zero desire for a blower or turbo.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 2,150
Likes: 304
From: Timra, Sweden
What year do you have?
At least if you have the early digital dash it will still work if even if you install another ECM. The only things you loose are instant MPG, average MPG and range on remaining fuel. That is because fuel usage information come from the ECM. All other sensors on the dash, and also cruise control that is a part of the digital dash will continue to work. Sensors like coolant are duplicated, one for ECM and one for the dash.
At least if you have the early digital dash it will still work if even if you install another ECM. The only things you loose are instant MPG, average MPG and range on remaining fuel. That is because fuel usage information come from the ECM. All other sensors on the dash, and also cruise control that is a part of the digital dash will continue to work. Sensors like coolant are duplicated, one for ECM and one for the dash.
Drifting
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 1,477
Likes: 80
From: Hawaii
What I would do,
-Mini ram, or modified LT1 intake.
-Heads ported, or better flowing aftermarket heads.
-Injectors
-Hot cam, comp 503, or similar cam kit.
-1.6 roller rockers.
-Headers.
-True dual exhaust.
-Tune
or find a C5 Z06, the price is getting very reasonable now days.
-Mini ram, or modified LT1 intake.
-Heads ported, or better flowing aftermarket heads.
-Injectors
-Hot cam, comp 503, or similar cam kit.
-1.6 roller rockers.
-Headers.
-True dual exhaust.
-Tune
or find a C5 Z06, the price is getting very reasonable now days.
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Team Owner
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 28,475
Likes: 3,291
From: Hartford WI
What I would do,
-Mini ram, or modified LT1 intake.
-Heads ported, or better flowing aftermarket heads.
-Injectors
-Hot cam, comp 503, or similar cam kit.
-1.6 roller rockers.
-Headers.
-True dual exhaust.
-Tune
or find a C5 Z06, the price is getting very reasonable now days.
-Mini ram, or modified LT1 intake.
-Heads ported, or better flowing aftermarket heads.
-Injectors
-Hot cam, comp 503, or similar cam kit.
-1.6 roller rockers.
-Headers.
-True dual exhaust.
-Tune
or find a C5 Z06, the price is getting very reasonable now days.
Or better yet, Z06 or maybe a C6 even?
Team Owner
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 28,475
Likes: 3,291
From: Hartford WI
That's helpful. I was not aware of the tuning issues. The car is a 6 speed. I have the sticker someplace. I believe it's the performance rear gear.
Let me ask the question differently. Is there a small block combo that works? I want it to idle and be driveable. I was into these things when they were new. I know the TPI system is a major limitation. Is there an aftermarket injection that works well? Or, for the folks that went down this route the last 25 years found that the combo tops out at a certain number and anything after that requires a LS etc. swap? It will need to be NA. Zero desire for a blower or turbo.
Let me ask the question differently. Is there a small block combo that works? I want it to idle and be driveable. I was into these things when they were new. I know the TPI system is a major limitation. Is there an aftermarket injection that works well? Or, for the folks that went down this route the last 25 years found that the combo tops out at a certain number and anything after that requires a LS etc. swap? It will need to be NA. Zero desire for a blower or turbo.
As to tuning, here is my take on it. If you are going to get the setup, I'm not sure it is a good idea to "Frankenstein" the thing. I would consult a person who could tune and set up the build combo. It should all work well together with your goals. You are building a system so they all need to work well together or you may not get the "bang for the buck". I would go for a Superram or Miniram since the ACCEL and TPIS have laid out the combo if you don't want to find a builder for suggestions. The computer can run those systems and just needs to change the programming. Once you get more radical than headers, intake and fluffed heads, you are looking at transmission and rear end.
Safety Car
Joined: Sep 2001
Posts: 4,157
Likes: 554
From: Glenbeulah Wi
Hello
I have a question I don't think has been asked before. I'd like to upgrade my c4 with a better performing small block. I understand the TPI system is a cork. In theory, if I had better heads and an aftermarket injection like a a stealth ram, or the system that TPIS sells can the stock computer run it? If not, can an aftermarket system be integrated in my car so I have functional gauges?
I had an LS in my TA, it was awesome. But, I have a 6 speed. I have no desire to replace the entire drive train on the car. I have no illusions about keeping up with a modern car. Just would like to avoid being embarrassed by the wife's Flex with the 3.5 turbo motor.
Be gentle guys. It was just a question...
I have a question I don't think has been asked before. I'd like to upgrade my c4 with a better performing small block. I understand the TPI system is a cork. In theory, if I had better heads and an aftermarket injection like a a stealth ram, or the system that TPIS sells can the stock computer run it? If not, can an aftermarket system be integrated in my car so I have functional gauges?
I had an LS in my TA, it was awesome. But, I have a 6 speed. I have no desire to replace the entire drive train on the car. I have no illusions about keeping up with a modern car. Just would like to avoid being embarrassed by the wife's Flex with the 3.5 turbo motor.
Be gentle guys. It was just a question...
Thread Starter
Advanced
Joined: Apr 2019
Posts: 89
Likes: 43
From: Johnstown, Pa
Thanks guys. Good advice on this board. In short, the car is a 90 6 speed convertible. It's triple black. I bought it 2 years ago. I'm planning on keeping it. The year is significant for me. I taught my son how to drive a manual with this car and plan to do the same with my daughter when she gets her license. I work for a living and have college and retirement to think about so I have a small budget. But, a little at a time will work for me. Thanks again for the guidance
Team Owner
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 28,475
Likes: 3,291
From: Hartford WI
Headers will be a grand or north of it for ceramic coated headers. I prefer TPIS because they are bolt on without having to fabricate stuff for the brackets and supports. Another grand or so for the intakes. With tuning on a dyno and misc stuff, let's call it 3 grand.
Team Owner
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 28,475
Likes: 3,291
From: Hartford WI