i got two junk engines need help (Page 1/1)
saving_rossi APR 02, 09:33 PM
I was putting an '88 v6 into my fiero for an f23 swap, since I had one on hand. Turns out one of the cylinders has rot that was way worse than I thought it was. It maybe can be bored out and cleaned up, but I can only find 1mm oversized pistons. I don't see any other options anywhere.

I know a 3800 swap is the way to go, but I don't have the extra time to source everything for it right now. I am open to being convinced but I'm on a tight budget. I can put in maybe another 1.5 k at most right now, but i really wasn't planning on that. I still have to get gaskets and a new oil pan. I'm a college student. I was really looking forward to getting this card on the road in the next couple months.
Dennis LaGrua APR 02, 10:06 PM
If the cylinders are scored deeply an overbore may not work. One mm is almost .040" over and new pistons/rings are no longer available in that or a larger size for the 2.8L. For a quick fix I would go with a rebuilt long block. A 3.4L Camaro/Firebird P/R engine long block its an almost bolt in job and will provide a bit more horsepower..
VEGE engines has these engines and you can buy one from Summit Racing Equipment, About a $2400 investment but should provide a headache free install
------------------
" 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 "

[This message has been edited by Dennis LaGrua (edited 04-02-2025).]

cartercarbaficionado APR 02, 11:02 PM

quote
Originally posted by saving_rossi:

I was putting an '88 v6 into my fiero for an f23 swap, since I had one on hand. Turns out one of the cylinders has rot that was way worse than I thought it was. It maybe can be bored out and cleaned up, but I can only find 1mm oversized pistons. I don't see any other options anywhere.

I know a 3800 swap is the way to go, but I don't have the extra time to source everything for it right now. I am open to being convinced but I'm on a tight budget. I can put in maybe another 1.5 k at most right now, but i really wasn't planning on that. I still have to get gaskets and a new oil pan. I'm a college student. I was really looking forward to getting this card on the road in the next couple months.


how bad you want one? i got 2 options. i send you to a nearby friend in Oregon who wants 100 bucks but you gotta pull it or 2 you come grab my stripped shortblock i got in Washington 250 miles away that is known good but i want 200. if you need a gas tank i got a good one of those there too.
i do have to mention none of those options are 88s. i have the full clutch setup for the short block and he just does complete engines. should work out

[This message has been edited by cartercarbaficionado (edited 04-02-2025).]

Spadesluck APR 02, 11:44 PM
I am pretty sure there are still stroker kits available if you want to go that route.
fierofool APR 03, 10:34 AM
Check out ARI Racing Engines. This might be a good option for you. If you have to find a replacement engine, I recommend you go with a minimum of a 3.1 engine. The horsepower is the same as the 2.8, but I swear it has more torque than my 3.4. My 3.1 came from a Lumina APV van. The starter boss is already on the correct side, and there is no need to upgrade injectors or anything else, except to be sure you use a neutrally balanced flywheel or flexplate.

Should you ever want to go to distributorless ignition, the 3.1 *(and 3.4) have ports in the side of the block for crankshaft sensor and knock sensor.

https://engine-parts.com/online-store/

[This message has been edited by fierofool (edited 04-03-2025).]

cartercarbaficionado APR 03, 12:54 PM

quote
Originally posted by fierofool:

Check out ARI Racing Engines. This might be a good option for you. If you have to find a replacement engine, I recommend you go with a minimum of a 3.1 engine. The horsepower is the same as the 2.8, but I swear it has more torque than my 3.4. My 3.1 came from a Lumina APV van. The starter boss is already on the correct side, and there is no need to upgrade injectors or anything else, except to be sure you use a neutrally balanced flywheel or flexplate.

Should you ever want to go to distributorless ignition, the 3.1 *(and 3.4) have ports in the side of the block for crankshaft sensor and knock sensor.

https://engine-parts.com/online-store/



thats not a bad option either. some of us have had some pretty cool 3.4s (i really liked that turbo 3.4. destroked and everything but just using the block for the better oiling and stronger sides) borrowed track fieros but ive never driven a 3.1 swap. it would be the most direct swap for his 88 specific 2.8 since its already super close and the dis systems are pretty easy to use if you grab the obd1 engines
either way hes got a few options and if he pms me theres litterally a guy in his town who has a few 2.8s
saving_rossi APR 03, 03:27 PM

quote
Originally posted by cartercarbaficionado:

how bad you want one? i got 2 options. i send you to a nearby friend in Oregon who wants 100 bucks but you gotta pull it or 2 you come grab my stripped shortblock i got in Washington 250 miles away that is known good but i want 200. if you need a gas tank i got a good one of those there too.
i do have to mention none of those options are 88s. i have the full clutch setup for the short block and he just does complete engines. should work out




$100 sounds pretty good, I found someone in Hillsboro who wants $400 for a pulled complete engine + wiring and ECU out of a Camaro that supposedly was running. According to them it was going to go into a sand rail.

If I had time I’d head up to Washington, that’s where it everything is apparently. But also. This Camaro v6 is plug and play yeah? It’s from an 88 I think.
cartercarbaficionado APR 03, 04:50 PM

quote
Originally posted by saving_rossi:


$100 sounds pretty good, I found someone in Hillsboro who wants $400 for a pulled complete engine + wiring and ECU out of a Camaro that supposedly was running. According to them it was going to go into a sand rail.

If I had time I’d head up to Washington, that’s where it everything is apparently. But also. This Camaro v6 is plug and play yeah? It’s from an 88 I think.


i dont think the LC1 (camaro 2.8 since no 3.4 on the 88 and prior 3rd gen) fits correctly.. i might be wrong if someone else wants to chime in. it is listed specifically as rwd. the 94-95 Camaro is what you want
edit: i think my pm sent? idk the site kinda wigged out or my internet died again for a few seconds

[This message has been edited by cartercarbaficionado (edited 04-03-2025).]

Vintage-Nut APR 03, 05:03 PM
If You Go the "Used" Engine Route:

I highly recommend testing the motor before payment...

The best test is a Leak Down Test; however, I believe not many will put in the effort.

The easier way is checking the compression on each cylinder; low compression readings can indicate issues.

If not, at least as the minimum, rotate the crankshaft...

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Original Owner of a Silver '88 GT
Under 'Production Refurbishment' @ 136k Miles

Dennis LaGrua APR 09, 08:35 PM

quote
Originally posted by Vintage-Nut:

If You Go the "Used" Engine Route:

I highly recommend testing the motor before payment...

The best test is a Leak Down Test; however, I believe not many will put in the effort.

The easier way is checking the compression on each cylinder; low compression readings can indicate issues.

If not, at least as the minimum, rotate the crankshaft...



We only use the leakdown test and it gives very reliable results on cylinder and ring condition. It must be used with an air compressor. It won't detect a bad crank or rod bearing but if you get great cylinder readings the chances are that they are probably good but be sure to look at the entire engine. .
Used 2.8L Fieros are approaching if not being 40 years old. IMO they are worth very little. Sold the ones that we had here for $100 each, and they were low mileage but you cant escape AGE. Even on old low mileage engines, crankshaft , oil pan, manifold , water pump and timing cover leaks are very common.

------------------
" 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 "