I currently have a 96 sunfire with the 2.4 in it. The isuzu trans is starting to act up, and the motor is also having some issues.
I have the possibility of picking up a '00 2.4 motor and trans for $100 and was wondering if there would be any problems with swapping the motor. I have access to the complete engine, trans, computer, and wire harness. I know that the trans mount is different, but besides that what else would there be?
~Jeff
Jeff, someone else may chime in here, but engine swap questions are common and few people ever search the various forums for threads on who's done it and how. I'm sure there are more authoritative answers already written than mine. But, mechanically you'll need the complete shifter as well since the Getrag's is different. Next, your biggest nightmare is that all the onboard systems (electrical) completely changed for '00. And since they're all intertwined, using the '00 engine electrically intact would require complete rewiring of the car, not just the engine control computer (not practical). I don't think the engine could be easily retro-fitted back to '96 specs due to the crank position sensor, injectors and other items. I'd look for an engine/transmission combo closer to your car's year (at least prior to '99).
