AgentHubcap's Build Thread

[AgentHubcap]

It is about time to get things started here. I'll use this thread to track my progress.

Here is my starting point. 1997 M3 Sedan. I've owned it for almost a year now and love it. It just needs some more power.



First things first, I need to figure out what I need from my engine bay and what I can ditch. I think I can take out the whole harness, but I'm not sure. Do I need

Also, anyone know how much the s52 long block weighs (no accessories)?

I'm also searching for a replacement engine and transmission. I really would like a 6.0L (don't care if it is iron or aluminum, really), and I'm leaning towards the Vorshlag kit. Finding a suitable engine that isn't crazy expensive has been an issue so far.

I have the option to go with a 5.3L (and may just do that), but my goal of 400whp may be difficult to obtain from that.

[Pzary3233]

The vorshlag kit is the best thing going!!

I think the 400hp mark is not hard with an l33 5.3

Looking around again tomorrow for you!

I am glad that you have finally made the plundge!

[E36TitanM3]

It is about time to get things started here. I'll use this thread to track my progress.

Here is my starting point. 1997 M3 Sedan. I've owned it for almost a year now and love it. It just needs some more power.



First things first, I need to figure out what I need from my engine bay and what I can ditch. I think I can take out the whole harness, but I'm not sure. Do I need

Also, anyone know how much the s52 long block weighs (no accessories)?

I'm also searching for a replacement engine and transmission. I really would like a 6.0L (don't care if it is iron or aluminum, really), and I'm leaning towards the Vorshlag kit. Finding a suitable engine that isn't crazy expensive has been an issue so far.

I have the option to go with a 5.3L (and may just do that), but my goal of 400whp may be difficult to obtain from that.

Some people say about 350 dry weight of S52 or closer to 400lb wet. LS2 weighs 450lb (don't know if that's wet or dry).

I too have been scouring the interwebs for a LS2 from a GTO for a nice price. I found all these old threads from 2008 when everyone was selling their LS2's for around $3,000

[Pzary3233]

Yes - the prices are astronomical right now.... I've been looking for Agent for a few weeks now and the prices are horrible!

[AgentHubcap]

Yes - the prices are astronomical right now.... I've been looking for Agent for a few weeks now and the prices are horrible!

Best I've been able to find is an LQ4 locally for $850 I don't know what that comes with, though.

[Pzary3233]

Jump on it ASAP!!!!!!!!!!!

[PbFut]

I can give a thumbs up to the LS2. Really like the results in my MCoupe. 400/416 T/HP at the wheels with only a cam and spring change. Easy to setup. I paid 3200 3 yrs ago from Florida. I think it was about 150 to ship to So Cal. The OEM harness has sensors, lights and radiator fan connectors in it you will need. Run two sets of sensors, much easier to feed eash ECU. One for engine and old ECU for gauges. There is a bit of effort to making sure you keep the right lines. Use a stand alone harness for the swapped motor ECU. Makes things very easy.

[AgentHubcap]

Jump on it ASAP!!!!!!!!!!!

Still need to pick up a transmission, accessories, oil pan, intake, wiring harness and ecu. Still think it is a good deal?

[Pzary3233]

Yes, I do

I can get you a truck harness and ecu that you can strip and do what you need to with it.

Accessories are not bad and the intake is cheap if you stay with an LS1 (not ls6) intake.

Oil pan - buy new unless you find an awesome deal on a used one.

As far as price - to put it into perspective most LQ4s are going for 1k or more my cost with 150k + miles.

[E36TitanM3]

I can give a thumbs up to the LS2. Really like the results in my MCoupe. 400/416 T/HP at the wheels with only a cam and spring change. Easy to setup. I paid 3200 3 yrs ago from Florida. I think it was about 150 to ship to So Cal. The OEM harness has sensors, lights and radiator fan connectors in it you will need. Run two sets of sensors, much easier to feed eash ECU. One for engine and old ECU for gauges. There is a bit of effort to making sure you keep the right lines. Use a stand alone harness for the swapped motor ECU. Makes things very easy.

Mind telling us how you found your engine?

EDIT: Nvm, discovered how to search all of craigslist now must find someone who is willing to ship. Agent: I suggest searching all of craigslist for your stuff. Tons of good deals out there.

[Pzary3233]

I'd say that was a personal sale - and a few years ago when they were in production it was much easier to get one.

I am interested as to why you ran both ECUs...?

[AgentHubcap]

Mind telling us how you found your engine?

EDIT: Nvm, discovered how to search all of craigslist now must find someone who is willing to ship. Agent: I suggest searching all of craigslist for your stuff. Tons of good deals out there.

Portland craigslist has nothing

[hefftone]

Several years ago a guy I know bought a complete GTO LS2 and T56 for $1500.... He thought he got a good deal when he sold it for $3000....then I told him what they are worth today.
I think we might get some relief when the Gen V motors come out. I'm dying for details but it looks like there will be a lot more aluminum engines especially 5.3's with a slew of awesome tech. Ultimately the bottle neck is gonna be T56's.....there's not a whole lot of donors out there.

[BRAAP]

Awesome, three LSx powered '97 M sedans in the Portland area.

[bimerok]

Not sure that the suggestion of two ECUs is the best one. Can't see the reasoning for complicating it so much.

[BRAAP]

No need for two ECU's. Delete the BMW DME, 100% functionality of all aspects are retained even with the DME removed including instant mpg needle, BMW cruise, EWS-II, etc. Sensors feed the dash directly, not through the DME.

[Tongboy]

yeah, double ecu's is just crazy, absolutely unncessary