TaffyK20si

Okay, I did some searching on here first and didn't really find my answer, so here goes...
I just went to a local "u pull it" salvage yard and found a 92 SC400 and a 91 LS400. Both have no front end damage and have complete motors. They want $125 each for the motors and $100 each for transmissions.
I own a 97 LS400. My question is, would I be wasting my time and money by pulling either of these to potentially "one day" go into my 97 LS400, being a 2nd gen and these are both 1st gen motors/transmissions. Given IF my 1uz in my 97 kicks the bucket.
Are there any problems or differences swapping an older motor/trans into a newer car?
If this has already been answered, please point me in the right direction!
Thanks guys.

Shmee

iTrader: (3)

Iirc, the motor was essentially the same from 90-97 with some minor changes. In 98, it got vvti and a bunch of other upgrades.

I'm sure PD can correct me if I'm wrong but it might just be a matter of tearing it down to the longblock and swapping your parts on to it.

If it were me, and everything was basically plug and play, I'd probably build the motor up a bit or at least give it a refresh with new seals, belts and all plastic/rubber bits. Maybe even new rings and bearings if you really wanted something to get your hands dirty with...


As far as the trans goes, iirc, it is the same.

TaffyK20si

Good stuff^ hopefully that's the case.
This would be a total "backup" motor/trans.
Like you said, it would be cool to have it on a stand to refresh some things or even go a little crazy and build the thing up some. I have a buddy that owns a machine shop, so I'm sure there are all kinds of things we could cook up for it.
Keep the info coming!!!

timmy0tool

iTrader: (7)

actually they are different motors! but i am unsure on the SC as to which gen 1UZ they have.

1st gen 90-94 motors are non-interference while 95-97 are. also as you can see there are difference in intake manifold, engine management, transmission gating, and a whole slew of sensors and wiring. still, it could be as easy as swapping over the new bits to the older bare motor!

Kingsoup

I know its tempting, but you are unlikely to use those things. I saw a 99 Ls400 at the yard the other month, I got some parts, the VVTi motor is tempting, but do we really need a spare? you don't want to end up with an extra motor taking up room in your garage doing nothing. They are really reliable as it is, now if you got a VVti motor and 5spd trans as an upgrade to your 97 now we're talking. I find the newer motor and trans a significant upgrade to my 93 Celsior, it doesn't sound like much on paper another 40hp and another gear in the trans, but it makes a big difference in reality.

PureDrifter

iTrader: (10)

'89-94 and '95-07 LS400 1UZs have numerous differences....

pistons
rods
heads
cams
most sensors
harness
intake manifold
throttle body


Not useful to you in this case i'd say.