So I have done some searching and read lots on different engine swaps and different scenarios and most people swap their motors/trannies because they want more power or a 5 speed/6 speed or what not. I have a 2000 SE 5 speed that burns oil to the tune of about a quart every 4-500 miles and it is starting to get annoying filling it up every other Saturday.

I am going to stick with the 3.0 and just do a straight swap and want to know what other things I should do while I have it all out. I will do the clutch and want a mild upgrade from stock, any suggestions? Also will do things like plugs and small stuff like that but I have only had the car for a year and don't know what else to look for like seals that will be easy to do while the engine is out.

Looks like I can get a motor for $600-800 with pretty low miles from local junk yards, is that the best route or is there something else? I probably have a budget of $1000-1200 for everything so keep that in mind.

Its my commuter and it is a great car but I probably won't do any major mods to it, I already have a Y-pipe but that was more of necessity. I may do some suspension and or exhaust down the road. I am more of a if it breaks, up grade it to something better but I don't do much upgrading just because, I have 5 kids.

Seems like I should know this too but just want to make sure, since mine is a 5 speed it doesn't matter when buying the motor if its from auto or not right?
Anything else I am forgetting?

I am not interested in doing any 3.5 swaps or other different options, just a straight easy swap.

Thanks in advance

 

Maybe do the main timing tensioner. And I have some 3.5 cams that you could use with some adapters. It'd be easy enough to do while you do the timing :-)

 

Just pop the timing case off and look at everything, check all of the guides and tensioners for wear (Use common sense and ask yourself will this last another 10 years).

Also drop the upper oil pan and look at everything (While you drop it you should replace the two lip seals, two o-rings, rear main seal).

Replace the water pump just because.

Annd the rest of your typical replacement stuff can be done in car.