97-99 Celica JDM motors, 3SGE vvti and 3SGTE Options

[jjbenzo]

I own a 98 Celica GT hatchback with the 4-speed automatic. Im wanting to get a hold of a BRAND NEW JDM motor for the car. I want the 3SGE vvti (red valve cover) that came on SS-11, and SS-111 models, or the 3SGTE turbo from the 97-99 turbo GT4's. Does anyone know where I can buy, or order one of these brand new engines and everything i would need with it to do the swap?

[scothaniel]

I'm currently converting a 3rd gen 3SGE to turbo for my wife's car. So far, the 3rd gen 3SGE is nearly identical to the 3rd gen 3SGTE except for a few area's (high compression pistons, more aggressive cams, and no oil feed line for the turbo). This engine is really quite built in it stock form - same bullet-proof crank and rods as the 3SGTE and it even has the oil squirters for the pistons.

The bad thing is that all the gaskets, oil pump, and water pump are the same as the 3rd gen - so you wont be able to use any US parts for them.

I saw another one of these engines on ebay yesturday for $850. I was tempted to pick it up and keep it NA for a future car.... with an exhaust, intake, and tuning this engine can push 200HP. But my wife would kill me.