Engine Sources?
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TECH Apprentice
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Joined: Nov 2011
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From: Newport News, VA
Engine Sources? I have the same post over in the FI section, but I figured this one may receive more hits:
Hey guys, been lurking quite a while here and have been planning a build.
I hope this is the right place for this, as it's going to be a turbo build. (Denmah inspired)
It's an 85 T-bird, real nice shape. Has a tired V6 in it for now, but would like to put in a 5.3 with an On3 7875 eventually.
Already I have:
8.8 w/ 3.27 gears
Maximum Motorsports K Member
5 lug axles
5 lug front conversion with PBR calipers
My biggest trouble right now is finding a motor. I've been on eBay and whatnot, but I'm not sure about it.
What I need:
5.3 Engine with all accessories, harness, ECU, OBDII port, and hoping to get the instrument cluster too. I'd like to try to get that to fit somehow.
Preferable a used 4L80E
Can anyone point me the right way? Copart seems like a scam, plus in VA I have to go through a broker. I don't mind driving, I have a truck and I have an engine hoist.
Thanks in advance. I have cash in hand, not looking to spend a fortune though. I don't need a Gen IV or anything crazy. High miles is ok.
(Yes, I've tried CL, I've found 1 engine and he wanted 2600 for it.)
Hey guys, been lurking quite a while here and have been planning a build.
I hope this is the right place for this, as it's going to be a turbo build. (Denmah inspired)
It's an 85 T-bird, real nice shape. Has a tired V6 in it for now, but would like to put in a 5.3 with an On3 7875 eventually.
Already I have:
8.8 w/ 3.27 gears
Maximum Motorsports K Member
5 lug axles
5 lug front conversion with PBR calipers
My biggest trouble right now is finding a motor. I've been on eBay and whatnot, but I'm not sure about it.
What I need:
5.3 Engine with all accessories, harness, ECU, OBDII port, and hoping to get the instrument cluster too. I'd like to try to get that to fit somehow.
Preferable a used 4L80E
Can anyone point me the right way? Copart seems like a scam, plus in VA I have to go through a broker. I don't mind driving, I have a truck and I have an engine hoist.
Thanks in advance. I have cash in hand, not looking to spend a fortune though. I don't need a Gen IV or anything crazy. High miles is ok.
(Yes, I've tried CL, I've found 1 engine and he wanted 2600 for it.)
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Joined: Jul 2009
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engine sources No wrecking yards around you?
If you cant find something, shoot me a PM and I will get you hooked up with some of our local yards. They can ship one to you pretty reasonably.
Just an FYI, around my part of the country, a 5.3 with harness and ECU will run around 800 loaded into your truck. Transmissions go for around 600-800 with 90 day warranty. If you don't want the ECU and harness, you can pick up 4.8's and 5.3's for 500-600, some may have a broken pulley or missing compressor etc depending on the wreck. I have a yard that does bundle deals for me, for each extra one I buy, I get a 100 knocked off. So I will buy 3-5 at a time and get them for around 400 average without harness or ECU.
If you cant find something, shoot me a PM and I will get you hooked up with some of our local yards. They can ship one to you pretty reasonably.
Just an FYI, around my part of the country, a 5.3 with harness and ECU will run around 800 loaded into your truck. Transmissions go for around 600-800 with 90 day warranty. If you don't want the ECU and harness, you can pick up 4.8's and 5.3's for 500-600, some may have a broken pulley or missing compressor etc depending on the wreck. I have a yard that does bundle deals for me, for each extra one I buy, I get a 100 knocked off. So I will buy 3-5 at a time and get them for around 400 average without harness or ECU.
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Restricted User
Joined: Mar 2014
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From: Ohio
This is who I used. www.car-parts.com Just don't use a zip code
A quick search shows a dozen of them in my immediate area for $600 or less.
The 5.3 4L80 combo might be hard to find. Maybe those were in vans?
Anyway, I bought mine off ebay, "Buy it Now" auctions that expired from reputable dealers, with warranties. I just lowballed an offer after it expired. You're in the price range for a reasonable mileage complete 5.3 takeout with 4L60 trans.
Anyway, I bought mine off ebay, "Buy it Now" auctions that expired from reputable dealers, with warranties. I just lowballed an offer after it expired. You're in the price range for a reasonable mileage complete 5.3 takeout with 4L60 trans.
TECH Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2009
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I did this too for my 4L65E. Saved like $250.
Teching In
Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 21
Likes: 0
From: Edwardsville, IL
Speedway Salvage in Madison, IL. (618) 876-3366. Ask for Elliot.
He runs the internet side and specializes in late model engines. Pulled COMPLETE with computers, harness, acces., etc. He's a real stickler for things being complete.
He runs the internet side and specializes in late model engines. Pulled COMPLETE with computers, harness, acces., etc. He's a real stickler for things being complete.
Launching!
Joined: Feb 2015
Posts: 245
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My local LKQ pick a part currently has (3) 2000 or newer trucks with 5.3 engines in the yard complete with harness, ECM etc. They are likely higher mileage engines but you can pick up a fully dressed engine for just over $200 if you're willing to pull them yourself. 5.3's are a dime a dozen.
Thread Starter
TECH Apprentice
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From: Newport News, VA
Just a little update, I lowballed a 2003 Tahoe LT on Copart and managed to get it for $1800. With taxes and fees, it ended up at a little over $2200. The leather interior is mint condition, and it's got premium wheels etc. I figure I can part it out and keep the engine etc, and possibly be ahead on everything. Once it's gutted it's going to the scrapyard.
Once I pick it up next week, I'll post an update with the experience. I've never done anything like this before.
Once I pick it up next week, I'll post an update with the experience. I've never done anything like this before.