So my engine runs, more like ran, fine but has about 200k on it. The crank shaft decided to bust on me today. I am thinking about replacing the engine. Can newer engine models fit in the car fine? It's an 1989 5spd SE and if I remember right that makes it a VG. One of my main question is will a engine from the Z fit in with out to much other work? Also are there any year engines I should avoid?

WSS

--Friends don't let friends drive Hondas.

 

Nope. Not unless you possess mechancial skills 10x what we have here. Ve "maybe". But I wouldn't want to rewire the VG car to do it. Z nope. Too wide. Z31 turbo engine? Yes. Not plug and play. Want more details? Do a search

 

wow the crankshaft "busted"??

 

When my crankshaft busted I ordered a low mi import from japan through SOSHIN Motors in L.A. $550 + $100 shipping The engine pretty much complete. The Engine is a VG30 RWD I had to do very little modifications. The R & R was not that bad. probably the easiest eng change I have ever done .

 

just trying to figure out when yall say "busted" what do you mean??

 

Probably ruined the crankshaft pulley dowel pin slot on the crankshaft. If you ruin that, you basicly fubar the engine.

 

I've heard of several VGs breaking crankshafts too. how, I dunno but I've seen several in the last few years.

 

thats exactly why I'm asking...in the last year it seems like at least 2 guys on here talked of the same thing happening

 

I was told that a Timing belt that is too tight combined with a front seal leak and dirt accumulation caused mine. That is where it broke, right at the face of the engine.

 

Try this, priced right...http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eB...category=33615

 

What I think happened to mine is kinda wierd. My vavle covers were loose and leaked oil on to the pulley system. The power stearing belt slipped off. This is why I knew to look there. When I was under there I noticed that my main pulley aka big *** pulley or underdrive pulley was wobbling all over the place and the bolt that held it in had came out about a cm. I was walking back to the driver seat to shut it off and next thing I heard was "crack" and the engine died. I went to turn the key and all it did was turn the engine and spin like crazy but never caught on. I took off the main pulley and noticed where the timing belt attached was kinda loose. I went to see how loose and the damn gear fell into my hand. So pretty much I have no clue how much internal damage has been done except for a new underdrive pulley and a new crankshaft. The worse thing of all is that now if I might be buying a newer car (or at least an engine) I might have to sell my '78 280z and before anybody says anything my Z is for weekend driving and not a everyday car. I love sedans but sometimes the friends need to stay at home.

WSS

-Friends don't let friends drive Hondas.