96 geo prism build

[do7d]

before i even start this- i know there's a lot of cars that are faster and a lot cooler than the prism. i've grown rather attached to my beater, and would like to see what's possible for such a vehicle. if your comment has to do with buying a different starter vehicle, or anything of that sort, don't waste your time. just hit the "back" button on your browser and continue on your web bullying way.

i also know such a project will take timeand money. both of which i have a bit of, and am willing to expend. basically, i have some space, some tools, some help, and want to make my ****box a force to be reconned with.

i have done some research and found some 4dr geo tracker/suzuki sidekick has the same wheelbase, all wheel disc brakes, and 4wd. my goal is to swap the aforementioned goodies into said prism. there is quite an aftermarket following of sidekick/trackers in the offroad scene, parts to support higher torque in the drivetrain are available. i've found they (the tracker/sidekick) use the "s" series engine, requiring a 5sfe or 3sgte to be able to bolt to the awd trans. i know i will need a bit more hp to make the 4wd move as quick a fwd, so i believe the 3sgte would be my best bet. clearly, i will be upgrading the turbo- also requiring a build-up of internals. i have read 100's of build-ups of 3sgte so i have an idea abt what im getting into as far as engine misc.

the reason i have chosen the tracker/sidekick as a platform to base this off of is not only because of wheelbase, but cost of parts. i can find junked 4wd trackers/sidekicks for less than $1000. i also know things aren't going to just swap in. i am well aware that there will be a healthy amount of fabrication involved.

my questions are as follows:

1. are there any fundamental flaws in my thought process for the build? are there any red flags going up in anyone's mind pertaining to why this project could not happen?

2. are there any suggestions as to alternate engine/trans combos i should be considering?

any constructive input is greatly appreciated-

thanks in advance.

[w203]

if you have done all your research (which seems like so) and you are dedicated to this project i'm sure it would be rewarding at the end. provide more info on what you want. do you want to make this into a drag car or for autocross? what suspension have you looked into?

[do7d]

more of an rally/autocross type setup is my goal. i commute a fair amount on back roads, full of hills and turns. no off-road, but i'd like to have better traction in snow and wet weather. i have read in some threads abt using celica suspension parts for best handling performance, however i have not gone into as great depths with that as i have with engine/trans setups.

[do7d]

i thank you for the insight.. jjjjj.

so apartently, the information i received on the tracker/sidekick was incorrect as far as the trans/motor combo. still looking. does anyone have an alltrac corolla wagon? hook it up!

[EvoFire]

If I remember correctly, the Prizm is based off of a Corolla. The Tracker is off a Suzuki which I do not think those two have anything in common at all. The wheelbase maybe a coincidence?

I'm not 100% sure because they are so freak marriages in the automotive world, but I do highly doubt anything between the Prizm and Tracker will bolt up together. You might as well stick a Rav4 drivetrain in and be the same amount of work.

[do7d]

well since my "pipe dream" of awd in the prism:

i have found a 4agze to swap in. i will be ditching the s/c for a garrett t25r, and using a haltech e6x for engine management. there are also a few engine upgrades as well, but i won't waste time listing. i am still ISO suspension parts (not only shocks/struts) but chassis stiffening parts s/a strut tower brace, sway bars, etc. i just picked up the everyday wheels for the car, 17" konig monsoons, but still need a nice 14" or 15" for autoX. i also want to swap in all wheel disc brakes. clearly, i'll need new lines, pump, and the actual assembly (x4) for the setup.

i am not too familiar with specific brake setups, but shouldn't i be able to swap from any ae101/102?

[yotaprism]

EvoFire. there must be some things the same in these vehicles. i remember my biddies uncle mounting a 22r into a samy for his mud slut.

so that might be able to help you out a lil bit. im not sure what tranny he used and i dont really see that kid anymore to ask him, but this may give you some hope.

id love to see the all wheel drive prism. i just bought a 90 last week that i am going to modify for rally x. i dont know about going as far as you want to but it should make a good dirt car.