Hello, I am going to be purchasing an sc400, but the engine most likely needs to swapped because I believe the block and/or heads are warped due to overheating and blown gaskets. I am looking at an engine from a 92 sc400 with 100k miles, a 98 gs400 engine with 170k miles, a 95 sc400 with 200k miles and a 98 sc400 with 188k miles. I understand some of these engines are vvti while others are not. I am wondering how much work/money I would have to put into the car in order for the non-vvti or vvti engines to work with the stock ecu and harness. If anybody knows something I'd appreciate it very much. Most of the engines are around the same price of $560 ish.
EDIT: It's a base 1996 sc400

 

Hi you didnt mention what year the car you have is, that will be a big factor. Heres a brief timeline on the sc engine changes, 92-94 all compatible, 95 ecm changed along with a few minor things, from my understanding the 95 engine and ecm are only compatible with 95, someone chime in if im wrong though, 96-97 became obd2 compliant, and 98-00 have vvti. All that will factor into your choice.

 

Your question is sort of vague, you should first consider your model year, and what exactly you're looking for... Have you confirmed your engine is done? Have you gotten a 2nd opinion?? The issue is there are different ECUs for the same engine and different ECUs for the same engine and vehicles so accurately assisting you would be complicated at best... Stating your year will greatly help someone better answer your question.

 

Sorry about that, it's a 1996 Sc 400.

 

I have gotten a second opinion on the car, they suggested swapping the engine. Sorry about my vagueness, it's a 1996 sc400.

 

My understanding on these older platform, as I'm still new to this.... I'm pretty sure you can swap in a later version of the engine, like the 98 and newer VVTi, but you will need the harness and ECU to come with the engine. You may need to research further if it will work with your instrument panel.

 

I see, thanks for your input.

 

Might want to wait for a more experienced member for better guidance.

 

That is correct to use a VVTi engine you will need the entire engine harness and ECU, and this will have to be custom spliced to interface with the existing harnesses in the car. Unless you an expert in wiring, electronics and electrical work in general don't attempt this.