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Okay, I think I finally have something worth posting here again. My first post was this fun project, which kicked off back in early 2015: Thunderbolt! My LS3 V8 Miata build. That was an awesome journey and owning and driving the car is a real thrill! So after having another kid or two since then, time has freed up a bit and it's time to take on another engine conversion project. This time around the unsuspecting candidate is my 2002 Toyota Tacoma, which I picked up locally from the original owner.
I hope you enjoy the video and thank you for watching!
I really enjoy watching your videos. It feels like scratching a big itch to get to see someone go to the trouble of doing things correctly and in good order. Do you ever make it to Shades of the Past over in Pigeon Forge?
My friend and I, who both followed your Miata build, agreed that you're the only person we've seen that we would let someone build something for us rather than do it ourself because of the level of professionalism and quality.
FWIW, you should shim the oilpump prior to torquing.
I was surprised not to see him using the various alignment tools. I have a set for the oil pump, as well as, front and rear covers. They are super handy.
I was surprised not to see him using the various alignment tools. I have a set for the oil pump, as well as, front and rear covers. They are super handy.
Andrew
Agreed. Sac. city corvette and Mr Gasket both offer them. He should be blowing out all bolt holes too.
Thank you for checking out the videos everyone! Apologies for not joining in the conversation sooner here, I'm signed up for notifications but they are a no-show.
Originally Posted by Jimbo1367
I want to thank you in advance for doing such a though job documenting your swap. This should be fun. Subscribing
You're welcome man, I love sharing my garage goofballery with fellow enthusiasts like yourself. Thanks for the support!
Originally Posted by Vetteman61
I really enjoy watching your videos. It feels like scratching a big itch to get to see someone go to the trouble of doing things correctly and in good order. Do you ever make it to Shades of the Past over in Pigeon Forge? My friend and I, who both followed your Miata build, agreed that you're the only person we've seen that we would let someone build something for us rather than do it ourself because of the level of professionalism and quality.
Thank you for saying that sir, that is too kind of you guys! No I've never made it to the Shades of the Past show, but I have friends who go and yell at me for not making it each year, haha! I need to get down there!
Originally Posted by madmann26
I’m crying inside because you’re butchering an S-Runner.
I hear where you're coming from but this isn't an S-Runner. This is a 4 cylinder automatic that was custom ordered with a bunch of options that give it the look of an S-Runner, without the suspension goodies, V6, etc. etc.
Originally Posted by G Atsma
Get over it. A Taco is being REDEEMED! And as was said, this IS the Conversion and Hybrid section.
Thanks man, I'd like to think that we're creating something new and different. Plus this 4 cylinder/auto combo was such a dog. Had to drop it to low just to make it up a big hill near my house!!
Originally Posted by Project GatTagO
The word "butchery" does not belong anywhere in this build. Andrew
Thank you sir, that means a lot coming from you!
Originally Posted by Jimbo1367
FWIW, you should shim the oilpump prior to torquing.
Thank you for the tip on that, I read about this prior to installing and contacted Melling to get their take. I followed their instructions, hopefully that will be good enough!
Originally Posted by Project GatTagO
I was surprised not to see him using the various alignment tools. I have a set for the oil pump, as well as, front and rear covers. They are super handy. Andrew
Yes, I just used my straight edge and feeler gauges and used the damper to line up the front cover, but if (more like when ) I do this again, I will 100% use those alignment tools.
Originally Posted by Jimbo1367
Did you by chance blow out the heads bolt holes prior to bolting the heads down?
Yes, I blew them out and used the ARP cleaning tool which brought out surprising amounts of gunk.
Thanks again fellas! See ya on the next video update, which I plan to post on Tuesday May 28th.
05-05-2019, 02:11 PM
Firebolt! My 5.3 Turbo Toyota Tacoma build 
