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View Full Version : Swapping an 89 with an 87


Strangeduck
10-07-2016, 06:53 AM
I have an 87 LXI hatch manual (EFI), i want to put the motor from it into an 89 LXI coupe auto (EFI). The engine is the same right? They are both 2.0's
There is a ton of info here but trying to filter through it all is making me more confused lol.
conozo
10-07-2016, 04:59 PM
Yes they are interchangeable. All EFI motors are the same between 86-89
Strangeduck
10-08-2016, 05:49 AM
thank you! now to get to work.
Strangeduck
10-16-2016, 01:56 PM
turns out there are quite a few differences. The wire harness for the 89 was different, the main connectors are different.

###The entire intake is a new design than the 87. Things change, throttle body is different as are the throttle linkages. a couple connectors are a different style. The plugs in some places have opposite tabs making it impossible to plug them in. Some things have been deleted.

In short, it was a huge pain to swap these. Currently i cant fins any vacuum leaks but i have some different connections i had to improvise so they may be just completely wrong for all i know.

The car is hard to start, wont idle, wont even rev up properly. I can hold the throttle just right it will stop missing out and hold about 3k rpm but will eventually faulter and stumble.



Anyone have any advice?
Strangeduck
10-16-2016, 03:41 PM
im wondering if i can just swap the whole intake manifold out. Take the one from the 89 and put it on the 87 engine?
2oodoor
10-17-2016, 03:24 AM
Major differences is throttle body air intake devices & Check but ecm is a little different. Conzo is correct in that the basic stripped intake piece are relatively the same.
Strangeduck
10-17-2016, 03:41 AM
so i guess i am swapping intakes this week then.
Tdurr
10-17-2016, 06:50 AM
easiest way to do it is just to swap whole intakes. its like 10 bolts and 2 water lines. also get rid of that intake bracket(if you haven't already).
Strangeduck
10-17-2016, 07:06 AM
easiest way to do it is just to swap whole intakes. its like 10 bolts and 2 water lines. also get rid of that intake bracket(if you haven't already).

That is the plan, Gasket will be here wednesday i hope.
Shane86
10-17-2016, 04:01 PM
That is the plan, Gasket will be here wednesday i hope. I got one if you need it
Strangeduck
10-17-2016, 06:39 PM
thanks for the offer. I should only need the one though hopefully.
Strangeduck
10-20-2016, 08:34 AM
Got the intake swapped over and the engine is purring like a kitty. I dont remember my old engine smoking that bad but i think the cat probably still has a lot of antifreeze in it.

I was wondering one thing though. I cant seem to find in my service manual the proper method for checking the transmission fluid level. Is it put in in gear and check? The dipstick doesnt have and clear markings either, just a flat spot. Am i suppose to be at the top of that flat spot?
Strangeduck
10-20-2016, 12:16 PM
been driving around town for a bout an hour. no smoke. Just still not sure on auto trans procedure?
Dr_Snooz
10-20-2016, 07:26 PM
If the cat filled with water, then you'll get to swap it out soon. It will let you know when because you'll have no power...

Check trans oil with the engine off. You want the fluid level between the two lines. Post a pic of your dipstick if you continue to have trouble.
Strangeduck
10-21-2016, 03:36 AM
If the cat filled with water, then you'll get to swap it out soon. It will let you know when because you'll have no power...

Check trans oil with the engine off. You want the fluid level between the two lines. Post a pic of your dipstick if you continue to have trouble.



thanks!