[jpnovak]

So, I have always loved the Boxster since it came out. Financially out of reach.

Fast Forward to now. I have found a local 98 Boxster with what appears to be a D-chunk failure. It may be something else but the hole in the case means bad stuff happened. So there is a car. It has reasonably low miles and needs an engine.

Not being one to keep things stock I have been looking at engine swaps for a while.

here are what might be my options.

1. Audi 4.2 V8. yes, I know this can be complicated. The Audi 4.2 has the same bolt pattern as the Boxster so the transmission is easy to connect. I might have to work out something with the flywheel. Too bad they never sold the A8 with a manual. I would have to work out the electronics but this should be relatively easy as the 98 is a non-CAN car.

2. Ls3. I know, its a Chevy. But this engine makes gobs of torque everywhere in the RPM range, is cheap and reliable. Renegade just released their conversion kit. If its is similar install quality to the 996 variant I think this is a winner. the downside is that the kit is almost as much as the engine.

3. 3.4 swap. This would be the easiest. Simple to install but would require an ECU flash. Then there are still issues with the same problems that plague the M96 motors. yes, it would get an IMS bearing update before going into the car.

4. Stock engine swap. Just buy a used engine and bolt it in. Simple but not nearly as much fun as more power. In such a capable chassis I know I would want more. Turbo or SC kits are not any interest on a stock setup. Just too much stress on an already strained engine.


So, What have others done? How many have done a swap.