Hey everyone, I've been looking at a couple MR 2s in my area and have come across quite a few N/A MR2s, and one turbo model. One option I have is to get an N/A model, and eventually do a swap for a JDM 3S-GTE. Only I notice that I cant find any clips or engines that include the ECU. What would be best to get for an ECU for the new engine, or would the stock ECU that came with the N/A do the job?
Or would I just be better off spending twice the amount of money on the turbo model?
I have completed the swap personally.
I agree it would be easier to get the Turbo MR2 up front.
There are many things, other than the engine, that come with the Turbo model that you would be missing out on. For example; twin pistons brake calipers, larger rear rotors, and so on...
You DO NOT HAVE to replace the transmission, or the axles. The factory NA setup will do fine until you pass the 250 HP mark. The ECU will have to be replaced, along with the wiring harness.
Money will fix everything, but by the time you add it all up, you will be less out, to get the Turbo up front. Unless of course, you enjoy the challenge, more than the extra cash in your account....
I mean i dont know the details on the insurance rates. but i'll assume $300 diffrence in a 6 month period. $600/year in a 5 year that would make it $3000 you saved on your rates. thats almost enough for the swap. And plus say you got a mr2 with high milage engine you get a nice 30k engine as well. The swap is more of the winning option. plus yes closer to your car. and you understand a whole lot more. Only down side i see is if someone hits your or steals your car. You will be only covered for a NA engine not a 3sgte.
Originally posted by mblnnash You DO NOT HAVE to replace the transmission, or the axles.
Sure, you don't "have to" ... yes the car will work, but you will have a transmission geared for a power band entirely different than the engine you are sticking in there. There is a reason Toyota had different trannies for each engine.
What you do with your car is your business, good luck.
Quote:
Originally posted by bowlofturtle but wouldn't the prices of the insurance rates make up for getting a NA and swapping it in the long runs say you keep your car for 5+ years or so.
Insurance Fraud.
If you swap power plants without informing your insurance company and you reap the benefits of lower premiums ... you are commiting insurance fraud.
This opens the door to all kinds of fun things ...
... like the fact that your insurance company may not cover you if you end having an accident since you voided your policy ...
... then there is the potential jail time for that comes with insurance fraud.
Originally posted by bowlofturtle I mean i dont know the details on the insurance rates. but i'll assume $300 diffrence in a 6 month period.
I have both a turbo and an NA .... the difference in my premiums is $68 a year.
Quote:
Originally posted by bowlofturtle Only down side i see is if someone hits your or steals your car. You will be only covered for a NA engine not a 3sgte.
... or if you hit and kill someone else .... then your insurance company realizes you have swapped engines and they void your policy on the spot. Then you get to deal with all kinds of fun lawsuits.
Seriously guys, think about the choices you are making.
There is potential legal consequences for your actions.
My father is a district manager for State Farm Insurance, and he stated;
"Upgrades do not reclassify cars as a rule." "If you knowingly lie on a WRITTEN application, it could be pursed as fraud." He went on to say "Most carriers determine rates by using the VIN, and these days, rarely ask questions like "is it turbocharged" ". He also told me the reason a turbo MR2 rates higher, is due to its IRG rating, not specifically or limited to the fact that it is turbocharged. The IRG is also higher because of the value of the car.
Keep in mind, that in the event of a total loss, you would receive a payoff based on a NA MR2, which in fairness is good, since you would be paying a premium based off of that model.
It is not feasible to believe that every car that has been turbo charged or modified, would be involved with insurance fraud, just because the modification was an option from the factory.
Originally posted by mblnnash He also told me the reason a turbo MR2 rates higher, is due to its IRG rating, not specifically or limited to the fact that it is turbocharged. The IRG is also higher because of the value of the car.
The value of the car you are driving does not have anything to do with liability insurance ... which is what I was discussing above in th case of you hitting someone else.
The value of someone's MR2 would only matter for their comprehensive and collision insurances.
Originally posted by mblnnash My father is a district manager for State Farm Insurance, and he stated ....
Maybe your father should talk to State Farm's spokespeople?
"State Farm spokeswoman Ana Compain-Romero says the company has no issues with minor upgrades such as lowered springs and tuned exhaust systems, but she recommends informing your agent about any modifications, especially when you go from minor to major. Changes discovered after the fact (say, after an accident when an owner is trying to collect against the policy) may void the coverage."
Originally posted by mblnnash My father is a district manager for State Farm Insurance, and he stated;
"Upgrades do not reclassify cars as a rule." "If you knowingly lie on a WRITTEN application, it could be pursed as fraud." He went on to say "Most carriers determine rates by using the VIN, and these days, rarely ask questions like "is it turbocharged" ". He also told me the reason a turbo MR2 rates higher, is due to its IRG rating, not specifically or limited to the fact that it is turbocharged. The IRG is also higher because of the value of the car.
My State Farm Policy was voided on my Corolla because I have intake, exhaust and suspension mod. They say I didn't tell them and that's fraud. Plase ask your father if I can get my money back.
... there are many cases all over the Internet of State Farm dropping people for having their cars lowered. I'm sure they would overlook an engine swap that offered 50%+ more power though.
Originally posted by JekylandHyde ... there are many cases all over the Internet of State Farm dropping people for having their cars lowered. I'm sure they would overlook an engine swap that offered 50%+ more power though.
The AutoGuide.com network consists of the largest network of enthusiast-owned enthusiast-operated automotive communities.
AutoGuide.com provides the latest car reviews, auto show coverage, new car prices, and automotive news. The AutoGuide network operates more than 100 automotive forums where our users consult peers for shopping information and advice, and share opinions as a community.
ToyotaNation.com is an independent Toyota/Lexus enthusiast website. ToyotaNation.com is not sponsored by or in any way affiliated with Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc. The Toyota, Lexus and Scion names and logos are trademarks owned by Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc.
Forum for every generation Toyota MR2. Including the AW11 and SW20.
Linear Mode
