S50/S52 swap... is it worth it?

[Danny]

How do you know the rocker arms are about to break...? Just replace the rockers with stock and do a headgasket/timing belt job. Save your money.

Agreed. You will not recoup your costs when you decide to sell the motor.

[e30polak]

If you're going the m20 route, then I think we have a good running verified one we could sell you. This would end up being cheaper than the build you're planning.

[Suspence]

If you're going the m20 route, then I think we have a good running verified one we could sell you. This would end up being cheaper than the build you're planning.

I don't need to buy a new one at the moment, I think that I'm just going to try and rebuild my current one. I already have an awesome cooling system and other components that I feel comfortable with. I just need to get this M20 dialed in. I have an I chip and it's an ETA manifold... I have a crappy throttle body so I'm replacing that. I have a good list that will be taken care of next week. I'm also finally installing my other Sparco Evo and hoping to find some bumper trim...

[Wanganstyle]

If you're going the m20 route, then I think we have a good running verified one we could sell you. This would end up being cheaper than the build you're planning.

This would actually be cheaper in the long run than building a m20.........If i was local I would be interested, pm me how much you need out of that thing in case I happen to drive down to socal next week...

OP-

You don't need a built M20, just a 100% one- your e30 has been functioning its entire life till now... one that is functioning as rolled off factory floor would be ideal, then just low pressure turbocharge/supercharge to bolt on easy power. Usually Power goals is the reason for a DOHC or engine swap, if MPG was target it would be Eta engine swap OR 524TD M21 disel swap with veggie conversion for everyone and LOOOOOOONG gearing.

Only if racing demands state does the $$$ justify opening one up of these powerplants. Otherwise leave it 100% standard and change the entire unit if you desire.

perhaps your car would like a M30 transplant, if you like the M20 and just want more the M30 seems the ticket.

Dohc is a bit overboard IMO unless you have the parts sitting in front of you, your m20 is dead, etc etc

I choose to just keep driving the M20, will be re-configuring it slightly to add Turbo.

[rightcoastbias]

Reading this thread is like mining gold out of a septic tank.

[phreshkid]

Reading this thread is like mining gold out of a septic tank.

More or less but there is some good information in here I think....I can't remember.

[oldschoolfoolcabrio]

I paid Castros 5ooo with the engine and trans included is that a good deal?

[phreshkid]

I paid Castros 5ooo with the engine and trans included is that a good deal?

Well, are you satisfied? If yes, then no amount of money, no matter how small or great, can compensate for satisfaction that cannot be quenched through money alone.

Therefore, if you are happy with the results and given your lack of mechanical ability/space/time to pull the swap off yourself, I would be very grateful to have Castro's do the swap for me for that price.

Though, there are shops that will do the swap for less, Castro's is known for a no BS approach and gets the job done right the first time. Hell yeah I'd pay for that.