Replacement Saturn Engine

I have a 96 SL2 with 247000 miles.. I was wondering what engine I could drop
in to replace my engine if or when it dies.. The car itself is in really
good shape.. Cheaper to drop in a new engine and tranny then to buy a new
one.. But instead of the same type of engine and tranny.. I was wondering if
it would be possible to drop in a better engine or maybe a V6 from a newer
ION...

Just wondering,

Ben

 

You probably should describe what you mean by better engine. Higher mpg,
better longevity (247k is damn good, don't know how you'd improve upon
that), more aftermarket support, more power/torque, etc.

If you want to continue to use the term "drop in" and mean it, better stick
to an exact replacement for year and model. A switch to anything else would
be a nice project, but most wouldn't be prepared for the time, cost, amount
of fabrication, and how long the car is actually out of commission while
you're working on a more elaborate swap.

If you're mainly looking for a bump in power, you can fabricate a turbo
setup for the 1.9 Saturn motor for probably less time and $$ than it would
be to fit in a motor trans combo from some other car. The guys who post on
the forums at http://www.turbosaturns.net have done some amazing things with
Saturn motors.

Lane [ lane (at) evilplastic.com ]

 

Different engine may need a different computer, sensors, wiring, bla,
bla,bla. Replace with the the same type.

 

Looks like you have already gotten pretty good life from your current
engine. Rebuilding is an option if you have had no major issues with your
engine. You can buy a crate 1.9 online if you look around; some have bought
from 6th Planet Used Auto Parts, they also sell crate engines and can build
to your specs. Turbosaturns.net is an excellent resource (look what Ian has
done!). SaturnMotorsports.com or SPS (www.spswebpage.com) is a great place
to buy stuff too.
Oh, the engine in the ION is only a 2.2 4cyl, there is no 6 in an ION. Only
the VUE and now demised L300 has a V6 and they wont fit.

The running joke between me and my shop mechs is "while your at it, throw in
an ecotec swap in my SC2!", lol.

marx404

 

Ok.. Thanks for the info.. Just wondering what my options would be.. The
current engine is strong and runs great.. But when the day does come.. I
think I will just drop another 1.9L DOHC and hope it lasts as long as this
engine does..

Ben

 

Excellent mileage consider that this engine is notorious for head crack
under cam journal.

 

Twincams are NOT notorious for cracked heads.