Engine swap, Have the 3S-GE want the GTE Options

[madlion586]

Hey guys I've got a JDM with the 3S-GE and I want to go with the GTE from a '94-'98 GT-Four with 251hp. Does this make sense? and Where can I get Just the engine? cause I'll get screwed importing more than that here in Barbados. Duties will screw your budget. Help!!!!

[scothaniel]

If it is the 3rd gen non-VVTI, then there is little reason to get a ST205 engine. The 3rd gen 3SGE has a nearly identical block and head. I'm in the process of converting the same engine to turbo, and I've completely tore the engine apart.

The head has the same valves and port design as the ST205, with the only real difference being more aggressive cams since its NA. The manifold bolt pattern is identical to the ST205, so the exhaust manifold will bolt right up.

The block has the same rods, crank, water and oil passages as the 205 as well. The difference between it and the 205 block are high-compression pistons and the lack of oil lines to the turbo. The oil return port is there on the top half of the oil-pan, and just needs to be drilled out and have the elbow bolted on (which can be purchased from the local Toyota dealership). I think the ST185 elbow will work as well.
The pistons are the main difference for the block, being 10.5:1 versus 8.5:1. If you were to run low boost (like putting a turbo on the 5SFE) then the high compression pistons would be fine. It would probably be a good idea to through some higher flow injectors on it (the 3SGE has the same 250cc?? injectors as the 5SFE) - maybe from a DSM. The injectors are top fed, so the 3SGTE and Supra injectors wont work. Or you could get a fuel rail from the ST205 and use the stock 3SGTE injectors (440cc). To push more then low boost, you would need a fuel controller (maybe full EMS) and much bigger injectors to make up for the high compression. I;ve heard there is a turbo'd 3rd gen 3SGE in the states running the stock pistons and putting down a lot of power.

Another option is to swap out the pistons with low compression pistons from the 3SGTE motors. I am going this route, and using the stock ST185 pistons with new rings. You would definately need big injectors with this setup, along with a different ECU - I'm using the ECU from a 3rd gen MR2 since I'm not using the W/A IC. I'm trying to source a stock 205 fuel rail to use a set of Supra injectors, but if I cant find one for a good price I'll just buy a set of RC top-fed 550'c for the DSM's.

I fully believe this engine will produce as much power as a stock 205 at around half the cost of a 205 clip.