Over 1M Posts • 84K Topics • 9K Authors

the v6 swap information thread - 6G Celicas Forums

Topic #45161 84 posts Started by celicaST
yes and no ..

96-98 would be "better" for later spec celicas if you live in a nazi emission testing state ..


you can adapt return style set up to this motor as well just need to add a fpr like mr2's guy have done


94-02 non vvt-i 1mz parts will interchange through out years .. need return fuel set up .. find a 94-95 and

all you need is fuel rail and parts bolted to it ... i would use injectors if you can get them ..

when i go to yards(been to some any i lost count ) i always scope out core motor pile as well .. you can find dumb parts like

fuel rails and get them for super cheap or free ..


Old guy with the toys95 ST205 WRC (the real deal)94 MR2 HARDTOP Supercharged 2GR/6SPD 22 owned
Well, i've decided on the 3VZ-FE. Does anyone know how much trouble I'll have w/ the motor mounts, since i habe ab AT200 chassis??

QUOTE"And, as always, your friendship, help, and dedication to the advancement of Texas Celica dominance is GREATLY appreciated. Thanks bro." -DEATH1994 GT:V6 swap, 5speed E53 W/ LSD, All Power, now RED1995 ST:SOLD @273k miles, Auto, all power, CarPC, White1994 ST:Totaled, 5spd, all power, RedRIP 07/09/09 @ 241,8101994 Lexus LS400:This is my new DD
I think we need another teaser pic wink.gif bwahahaha laugh.gif

IPB Image


Past: V6 Swapped 6G Celica, E46 BMW M3, Jeep Wrangler TJCurrent: 850rwhp C6 Corvette Grandsport, Gen1 6.2L Ford Raptor
Okay, as a newb and as someone that lives in the NAZI smog capitol of California...

* What are my OBDI options? (I have a 95)
* What's this fuel return / returnless stuff?
* Looks like the V6 is a tight squeeze. How easy is it to service the different V6's? For example, is there easier access to plugs / oil filters on one engine over another?
* Does anyone know the weight difference between the cast and aluminum blocks? Would I have to purchase stiffer springs up front to correct ride height?
* Can I keep A/C with any of these, or do I have to ditch it to make room?
* Dare I ask what the MPG will be after a swap like this?
* If I get an engine that's known for sludge issues - how do I combat it?

(I have a 95). In California, you can swap any passenger car engine in the Celica as long as 1) It comes from same year or newer doner car 2) all original smog equipment is installed. Take it over to CHP, and they check it out - and blue sticker it. In other words, I CAN do OBDII legally, but it'd be a wiring nightmare right?

This post has been edited by Jeremiah: Apr 23, 2007 - 10:30 PM
wow due your getting your info from an old site... You don't take it to CHP, you make an appointment to see a Smog check Referee. There the inspection will be performed which is basically a regular smog check but also to make sure it's connected as the donner vehicle. After that is done and completed, a BAR Label will be issued and you will be able to smog your vehicle in the regular manor.

And in regards to an OBDII swap, these are a bit more complex but feasable. OBDII comes with a lot of self testing monitors that you have to make sure work. The easiest way to do a obdII swap is to start off with an OBDII but it's still workable. You can do a 95 V6 MT, it's just going to be hard to get the right PCM for it. As i recall a 95 v6 mt camry was very very rare. But if you have any other questions PM me as i can go quite in depth on this.
^ so that's all i have to do after the swap is done? and then i'd have a completely street legal 200++ hp celica in california?!

edit: bump for more info

This post has been edited by j0e_p3t: May 1, 2007 - 12:06 AM

ss-iii splitters and 404 skirts areon. which means i need to update my sig.
Can anyone tell me which V6's had the sludge problems, and what can be done (if anything) to correct the sludge issues?
im not sure which engines had the problem, but its due to the fact that toyota found that if the head is hotter, it would get slightly more power && better economy. which, to an extent, is true. but it cooked the oil that went through the head, and caused it to "sludge up". they skimped on the cooling channels in the head. so as far as i know, its not correctable.

QUOTE"And, as always, your friendship, help, and dedication to the advancement of Texas Celica dominance is GREATLY appreciated. Thanks bro." -DEATH1994 GT:V6 swap, 5speed E53 W/ LSD, All Power, now RED1995 ST:SOLD @273k miles, Auto, all power, CarPC, White1994 ST:Totaled, 5spd, all power, RedRIP 07/09/09 @ 241,8101994 Lexus LS400:This is my new DD
Well it doesn't matter just get either a 3vz, 5vz, 1mz, 3mz and get it in our car. Better than a 5s wouldn't you say? If the majority of mr2oc community is doing it, it's not a big deal. It's not even an issue.

<--- I miss :'' (
>
QUOTE(j0e_p3t @ Apr 30, 2007 - 10:21 PM) [snapback]552704[/snapback]
>
^ so that's all i have to do after the swap is done? and then i'd have a completely street legal 200++ hp celica in california?!

edit: bump for more info


After looking up some info on this swap. It is a close call to get a v6 OBDI legal in a 94-95 celica. Because, no vehicle camry/es300 came with a manual transaxle option in those years. The reason that's important is because we have to make sure timing specs are available for Engine/Tranny/Year. Although further research in our books reviels that "Motor Emission control systems application 2006 Edition" has the 94-95 camry with a v6 5 speed option. So It's a go. However some referees may not have the book and some may. We have it so it's been cleared.
but obd2 should be no prob right? i'm planning on a 99+ imz in a couple years... hopefully.

ss-iii splitters and 404 skirts areon. which means i need to update my sig.
>
QUOTE(Jeremiah @ May 1, 2007 - 5:26 PM) [snapback]553049[/snapback]
>
Can anyone tell me which V6's had the sludge problems, and what can be done (if anything) to correct the sludge issues?


sludge, there you go. problem was fixed in 03+ 1mz's

I think Bigfoot is blurry, that's the problem. It's not the photographer's fault. Bigfoot is blurry. And that's extra scary to me, because there's a large, out-of-focus monster roaming the countryside.
>
QUOTE(j0e_p3t @ May 5, 2007 - 1:55 AM) [snapback]554404[/snapback]
>
but obd2 should be no prob right? i'm planning on a 99+ imz in a couple years... hopefully.


obd2 just has a lot more wiring/sensors you have to deal with. However on one of the mr2 sites, there's actually a Complete writeup on how to do a obd2 1mz swap into a obd1 vehicle. Even though it's a mr2, the basic parts needed are there.
>
QUOTE(FORGMANN @ Feb 6, 2007 - 8:37 PM) [snapback]524447[/snapback]
>
correction make that 3 .. and btw there is just enough room not a lot of room front to back

details by end of month.. here is a teaser pix..


IPB Image


Are you by any chance considering performing this swap for local 6gc owners?


I love the feel of V6. Just immediate and ballsy pickup regardless of what speed you're at.

Seriously, if it's something you would consider, let me know.
Ok im also in cali and u say that all of the engine swaps metioned are legal..sweet!!!What is the gas milage like far all the engines for a 1994 ST coupe,cause we all know gas will hit over at least 5$ within 2 years,at least in california and i dont wanna have a car under 20 mpg.

BANNED. for life, you moron.
>
QUOTE(Celicaguy13 @ May 4, 2007 - 3:47 PM) [snapback]554138[/snapback]
>

After looking up some info on this swap. It is a close call to get a v6 OBDI legal in a 94-95 celica. Because, no vehicle camry/es300 came with a manual transaxle option in those years. The reason that's important is because we have to make sure timing specs are available for Engine/Tranny/Year. Although further research in our books reviels that "Motor Emission control systems application 2006 Edition" has the 94-95 camry with a v6 5 speed option. So It's a go. However some referees may not have the book and some may. We have it so it's been cleared.

Generally speaking I don't think they care what tranny you run so long as emission and performance related parts haven't been tampered with.

"It's ok to be naked girl... I'm an artist!"1995 AT200 Celica ST:stocked out daily driver...1984 AE86 Corolla GT-SR5:silvertop 20V 4AGE project car jacked up with goodies...1991 SW2x MR2 n/a:bare bones hardtop model soon to be...
>
QUOTE(Celicaguy13 @ May 5, 2007 - 5:40 PM) [snapback]554561[/snapback]
>
>
QUOTE(j0e_p3t @ May 5, 2007 - 1:55 AM) [snapback]554404[/snapback]
>
but obd2 should be no prob right? i'm planning on a 99+ imz in a couple years... hopefully.


obd2 just has a lot more wiring/sensors you have to deal with. However on one of the mr2 sites, there's actually a Complete writeup on how to do a obd2 1mz swap into a obd1 vehicle. Even though it's a mr2, the basic parts needed are there.


okay off topic, but you seem to know a lot about cali vehicle emmission laws and what-not. so do you know what i would have to do to import and register a st205 and make it street legal?

ss-iii splitters and 404 skirts areon. which means i need to update my sig.
I don't know how to actually import the car. However when you do so you have to get Federal safety certified. And in order to get it legal In cali, the proceedure is actually quite simple as long as you import a 94-95 st205. Since the 3sgte was offered in those years, all you have to do is pretty much put all required emission equipment that was required in the 94-95 mr2 turbo, as well as routing all vacuum lines. The only custom work you would have to do is get the EGR system installed and operational. Since it's a AWD, a TSI (Two Speed) test is going to be performed. And when that is done, the egr valve is manually tested with a vacuum pump. However, when it comes down to it, i think that's the easier part when it comes to importing a vehicle. And yes you would have to make an appointment with a State Referee to get "Emission certified".

This post has been edited by Celicaguy13: May 8, 2007 - 4:02 AM
>
QUOTE(Kwanza26 @ May 7, 2007 - 10:01 PM) [snapback]555193[/snapback]
>
>
QUOTE(Celicaguy13 @ May 4, 2007 - 3:47 PM) [snapback]554138[/snapback]
>

After looking up some info on this swap. It is a close call to get a v6 OBDI legal in a 94-95 celica. Because, no vehicle camry/es300 came with a manual transaxle option in those years. The reason that's important is because we have to make sure timing specs are available for Engine/Tranny/Year. Although further research in our books reviels that "Motor Emission control systems application 2006 Edition" has the 94-95 camry with a v6 5 speed option. So It's a go. However some referees may not have the book and some may. We have it so it's been cleared.


Generally speaking I don't think they care what tranny you run so long as emission and performance related parts haven't been tampered with.


And the tranny does matter. Because of timing specs. Even though most cars timing specs are the same, whether it's a manual or auto. There needs to be official specs in the books for the engine/tranny combo being tested.

Now that i think about it, i'll ask what the rules are for non adjustable engine swaps. hence vvti v6's. because those weren't offered with a manual trans. but I don't want to get your hopes up.

This post has been edited by Celicaguy13: May 8, 2007 - 4:01 AM
Look - Hit up the DMV web site, or go to the DMV for all information regarding the law on engine swaps. Since California is one of the strictest places on the planet when it comes to SMOG regulations - GO TO THE SOURCE. If you don't read it, and you spend thousands of $$$ and your time to do a swap, and the ONLY research you did depend on this thread, I will mock you later when you can't get your blue sticker.


That said - I plan on going with an automatic when I do the swap anyway. I've driven auto V6's in yotas before, and I'm very pleased with how they function.

I'm still not sure what direction I want to go in. I was sold on the OBDI because of ease of install wiring, and the engine is supposed to be mechanically easier to work on. However, sounds like they have sludge issues in those years, and I'm not sure how to combat / correct for that frown.gif
>
QUOTE(Jeremiah @ May 9, 2007 - 2:55 PM) [snapback]555772[/snapback]
>
Look - Hit up the DMV web site, or go to the DMV for all information regarding the law on engine swaps. Since California is one of the strictest places on the planet when it comes to SMOG regulations - GO TO THE SOURCE. If you don't read it, and you spend thousands of $$$ and your time to do a swap, and the ONLY research you did depend on this thread, I will mock you later when you can't get your blue sticker.


That said - I plan on going with an automatic when I do the swap anyway. I've driven auto V6's in yotas before, and I'm very pleased with how they function.

I'm still not sure what direction I want to go in. I was sold on the OBDI because of ease of install wiring, and the engine is supposed to be mechanically easier to work on. However, sounds like they have sludge issues in those years, and I'm not sure how to combat / correct for that frown.gif


Well it's a good idea to go to the right source if you directed people to the right site. You want to go to www.arb.ca.gov. Also I don't know where you hear it's called a blue sticker. It's a bar label and it's white.

Anyways, I don't post information that I dont know what the heck i'm talking about. All the information i post is what i know is FACT. And if i'm not sure about something, i'll say it up front. It's people like you that cause people to back off from projects when you don't know what is correct.

P.S. It's not nice to mock people... we'll be mocking you when your driving an auto v6 and we're driving our legal v6 mt's
lol amen to the mocking of the auto!!!!And no one answered me, wat is it Gas milage of these engines?

This post has been edited by CelicaST_CALI: May 9, 2007 - 5:24 PM

BANNED. for life, you moron.
>
QUOTE(Celicaguy13 @ May 9, 2007 - 8:54 PM) [snapback]555785[/snapback]
>
Anyways, I don't post information that I dont know what the heck i'm talking about. All the information i post is what i know is FACT. And if i'm not sure about something, i'll say it up front. It's people like you that cause people to back off from projects when you don't know what is correct.

You don't know for a FACT you have to keep the AUTO. You shouldn't say you know for sure because even smog techs and BAR refs don't know for sure. It's subjective and depends on the tech, but in the end the ONLY reason the tranny may be a concern is to check stock timing specs, which is sometimes different between a manual and auto. Take for example, some Honda engines run around 20 degrees BTDC with the auto, while the manual is around 15 degrees BTDC. Still, this should NOT be a problem because the engine itself runs base timing between 8-12 degrees BTDC regardless of auto/manual trans... not to mention a later versions were availiable with a factory 5 speed. Again... so long as the emissions and performance related parts/specs are intact and functional, along with all of the stock wiring related thereof... you'll be OK for BAR. How do I know? Well... I kinda sorta do run a smog shop.

and... the 1MZFE motors typically get around 20mpg city and 25-28mpg highway.

"It's ok to be naked girl... I'm an artist!"1995 AT200 Celica ST:stocked out daily driver...1984 AE86 Corolla GT-SR5:silvertop 20V 4AGE project car jacked up with goodies...1991 SW2x MR2 n/a:bare bones hardtop model soon to be...
>
QUOTE(Celicaguy13 @ May 9, 2007 - 3:54 PM) [snapback]555785[/snapback]
>
All the information i post is what i know is FACT. And if i'm not sure about something, i'll say it up front.


Good for you. Here's a cookie:
IPB Image

>
QUOTE(Celicaguy13 @ May 9, 2007 - 3:54 PM) [snapback]555785[/snapback]
>
It's people like you that cause people to back off from projects when you don't know what is correct.


Wait, so you didn't say "I don't know about this." so... it must be FACT right? Can you provide evidence of this FACT? Because it seems more like conjecture and opinion to me.

>
QUOTE(Celicaguy13 @ May 9, 2007 - 3:54 PM) [snapback]555785[/snapback]
>
It's not nice to mock people... we'll be mocking you when your driving an auto v6 and we're driving our legal v6 mt's


The irony in that statement is astounding. And, I don't care if you mock me in my V6. If you think you're superior because of a slightly quicker vehicle, I'll be immature too and point out I own a Kawasaki Ninja. I'll gladly race you for pinks if you want to man up.

Or... you can realize I was emphasizing a point with sarcasm. California really is one of the strictest places on the planet for SMOG. It's would behoove anyone in Cali who's intersted in this swap to be comfortable with the law regarding engine swaps - if that statement discourages anyone from doing the swap - GOOD. I probably saved them time, money and frustration. Research first - THEN do swap.

PS - I called it a blue sticker, because back in the day when you did swaps CHP would inspect your vehicle and give you a blue sticker. It's a legacy term. When I tell you to "Dial" a number, that's a legacy term to. They exist. Go take your prozac and relax.
>
QUOTE(Jeremiah @ May 9, 2007 - 1:55 PM) [snapback]555772[/snapback]
>
That said - I plan on going with an automatic when I do the swap anyway. I've driven auto V6's in yotas before, and I'm very pleased with how they function.

I'm still not sure what direction I want to go in. I was sold on the OBDI because of ease of install wiring, and the engine is supposed to be mechanically easier to work on. However, sounds like they have sludge issues in those years, and I'm not sure how to combat / correct for that frown.gif


i looked into the automatic option a little bit. i *think* the mounts are the same for the e-153 and the a541e. issue would be coming up with a solution for axels. forgmann sent me a pm of what might work with axels but i deleted it.

only the 3vzfe is obd1 and those do not have the sludge problem. the pre 03 1mzs are the ones with the sludge problem. its oil passageways through the head that cause the problem, but i doubt its a huge issue. if you change your oil regularly and run seafoam through it occasionally you should be fine.

I think Bigfoot is blurry, that's the problem. It's not the photographer's fault. Bigfoot is blurry. And that's extra scary to me, because there's a large, out-of-focus monster roaming the countryside.
>
QUOTE(celicaST @ May 10, 2007 - 12:57 AM) [snapback]556028[/snapback]
>
i looked into the automatic option a little bit. i *think* the mounts are the same for the e-153 and the a541e. issue would be coming up with a solution for axels. forgmann sent me a pm of what might work with axels but i deleted it.


Yeah, the axles in any application are what puzzles me. I'd really really like to do an auto, as I spend too much time in stop & go traffic these days mad.gif The auto is vastly superior in those conditions. And, I've driven several V6 w/ auto's... they're much Much MUCH better than people give them credit for. The auto's on our little 4 bangers suck... but the V6 is a totally different animal.

>
QUOTE(celicaST @ May 10, 2007 - 12:57 AM) [snapback]556028[/snapback]
> only the 3vzfe is obd1 and those do not have the sludge problem.


Good to know 'cause I'm really leaning towards that motor. It's supposed to be much easier to swap / maintain and the weight difference isn't that significant - not when I'll have 200 HP on tap. The bottom end power is just AMAZINGLY better compared to a turbo setup, and being NA it'll last much longer. I can always add an illegal turbo if I want more vroom biggrin.gif
if you guys noticed that 1mz swap done in Uk was a AUTO SWAP ... pix were in a diff thread


easiest way to do axles is just like manual .. need 90-93 all-trac axles and find auto rear jackshaft from
a 94+ es300, 96+ avalon, and camry from mid 90's ...i cant confirm all years but i have see 6 bolt cv joints
on all these models at yards .. also need inner axle from same car for dr side and then bolt to all trac axle..

btw this info is for v6 auto tranny ..not 5sfe tranny

you will also need spacer like 3sgte guys use ....

another way could be to just build some hybrid axles if you can't find all trac axles (6 bolt) .. might just try
to stick in camry ,etc as is and see how they fit and adjust mod as needed ..

i will say if on budget do not get a 3.3L or even 02 or newer just stick with older late 90's 1mz and rebuild with new bearings etc... and save some money .. just so much more to deal with on later motors ..

Old guy with the toys95 ST205 WRC (the real deal)94 MR2 HARDTOP Supercharged 2GR/6SPD 22 owned
I found the engine I want in by 6gc!!! What a bad a## swap it would make! This guy has made alot of engine mods and it would look great under the hood of a celica!! What do you all think? biggrin.gif


http://www.cardomain.com/ride/378213/2
Teaser video wink.gif

Past: V6 Swapped 6G Celica, E46 BMW M3, Jeep Wrangler TJCurrent: 850rwhp C6 Corvette Grandsport, Gen1 6.2L Ford Raptor
I'm definitely going with the 3VZ-FE, for a few reasons.
7200 rpm fuel cut! (thatts higher than my 7A)
no speed limiter...(ST is somewhere between 110-115)
strong from the factory
the most torque-y engine i've heard of.
mm, turbo anyone?

This post has been edited by stephen_lee: Jun 3, 2007 - 2:47 PM

QUOTE"And, as always, your friendship, help, and dedication to the advancement of Texas Celica dominance is GREATLY appreciated. Thanks bro." -DEATH1994 GT:V6 swap, 5speed E53 W/ LSD, All Power, now RED1995 ST:SOLD @273k miles, Auto, all power, CarPC, White1994 ST:Totaled, 5spd, all power, RedRIP 07/09/09 @ 241,8101994 Lexus LS400:This is my new DD