3800 swap; waterpump, valve covers, ... what else? (Page 1/1)
bmyers MAR 21, 02:59 PM
Hello all,

I am prepping a 3800 to be installed in an 86 Fiero. It was suggested I remove the valve covers and re-install them on opposite sides so as to make the oil fill hole more accessible. Was also suggested that I replace the waterpump since, should it fail, there's no way to replace it w/the engine in the car. These suggestion seem to make sense. Is there is anything else I should do before installing? Thx

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Brian

Frenchrafe MAR 22, 02:33 AM
Valve covers yes.
Water pump no, unless you want peace of mind because potentially failed pump.
I have no problem changing out a water pump in place. It's just a little less space to see well.


Regards,
Rafe

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"Turbo Slug" - '87 Fiero GT. 3800 turbo. Sticky tyres. Driven hard!
https://www.youtube.com/cha...1wZvWQlkYxTjivW_0XNg

Dennis LaGrua MAR 22, 06:30 AM
Agree with Rafe the 3800 water pump can be changed while the engine is in the car. How many miles on the engine before deciding to change the pump may be the deciding factor.

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" THE BLACK PARALYZER" -87GT 3800SC Series III engine, custom ZZP /Frozen Boost Intercooler setup, 3.4" Pulley, Northstar TB, LS1 MAF, 3" Spintech/Hedman Exhaust, P-log Manifold, Autolite 104's, MSD wires, Custom CAI, 4T65eHD w. custom axles, Champion Radiator, S10 Brake Booster, HP Tuners VCM Suite.
"THE COLUSSUS"
87GT - ALL OUT 3.4L Turbocharged engine, Garrett Hybrid Turbo, MSD ign., modified TH125H
" ON THE LOOSE WITHOUT THE JUICE "

Frenchrafe MAR 22, 12:03 PM
Also, depending on where you position the ICM and coils, you may need to splice in some longer wires to get the ICM harness to fit.
I started with the "coil pack" riding on the boot/trunk firewall. It then evolved to sit in the place of the battery (which was moved to the front of the car).
Each time, I had to modify the ICM harness a little bit.

Good luck,
Rafe

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"Turbo Slug" - '87 Fiero GT. 3800 turbo. Sticky tyres. Driven hard!
https://www.youtube.com/cha...1wZvWQlkYxTjivW_0XNg