VG. 33 thoughts.

[Tacoma311]

So. Let me start by saying the ka swap in my roadster is an absolute blast to drive as compared to the original 1600 which still brought smiles, just not quite as big. Now that I'm getting old and grey, I'm contemplating a re-power of another sort
. I'd considered the VG30 a few years back but had family matters that were always a priority. Recently while snooping you tube, I see a gentleman name Dave has wiggled a VG33 into his "69" engine bay. When I look under my hood, I like what I see, but wish it had a more period correct look to it, similar to what Dave has created. Difference being that I'm considering using a modified intake manifold which will accept a Holly or Demon 350cfm carb, and a distributor from Davis Unified which will allow getting entirely off the ecu.
Most, and my self included will say it's a step back for a moderate hp. gain. In my older eyes, I just feel that the clean look it can potentially give would almost make it look period correct so to speak. Or. I'd like to think that an engine swap form the "70"'s would somewhat resemble the look I'm after. Nissan V-6, sohc heads, big valve covers, 6 plug wires, carbed intake, distributor. Not much more than that.
I'll probably struggle a bit to even find the 200hp mark with this configuration and I know that. We're all individual and our needs and desires sometimes change.
All thoughts and feedback are greatly appreciated.
Mike

[Pjackb]

Why not simply carb the KA with sa pair of sidedrafts? Seems to me to look as if not more period correct as the VG

[Tacoma311]

I actually considered that option but just felt I'd like to fill the engine bay out a little more. Not to mention the added hp. and torque. Contemplating an old skool blow thru turbo set-up as well.

[JT68]

80's generation truck motor with a carb and dist? If you are going to do such a major violation, why not the VQ? Trouble free engine and operation, Great power.

I like the VG ok too but it is significantly heavier and requires the same basic misery to make it fit. Huge project. The old single cam VG version is ok, but the Z32 version was far more fun (I've owned many as my daily). Still I would pass on VG overall and go VQ if I wanted a 6. JMHO

Of course that carbed KAde is a much bigger project than most realize. Lots of tinkering. Looks like an Elecromotive TEC2 stuck in there.

[Tacoma311]

I actually considered that option but just felt I'd like to fill the engine bay out a little more. Not to mention the added hp. and torque. Contemplating an old skool blow thru turbo set-up as well.

[Tacoma311]

[quote=JT68 post_id=276678 time=1526827663 user_id=3162]
80's generation truck motor with a carb and dist? If you are going to do such a major violation, why not the VQ? Trouble free engine and operation, Great power.

I like the VG ok too but it is significantly heavier and requires the same basic misery to make it fit. Huge project. The old single cam VG version is ok, but the Z32 version was far more fun (I've owned many as my daily). Still I would pass on VG overall and go VQ if I wanted a 6. JMHO

Of course that carbed KAde is a much bigger project than most realize. Lots of tinkering. Looks like an Elecromotive TEC2 stuck in

A major violation in my eyes is a engine swap from another manufacturer. My vision is that of just a real clean uncluttered look that gives the feel of something from the seventies. Something that says, "Hey I've been in here all the while." As far as the level of difficulty. Probably about as easy as a Ka swap. Find the most invasive sweet spot, fab some mounts, cooling and exhaust.
Not that cost has much bearing on the project, the cost of well built VG vs. that of VQ are pretty close to night and day. Vq is a great engine that makes great power and are becoming increasingly affordable to purchase. I'm just after a more nostalgic look so to speak. I appreciate all your input JT and hope to hear from you in the future.
Mike

[fj20spl311]

One thing for the VG is I am pretty sure the transmission is a lot smaller, in it fits without modifying the tunnel.
I have seen the carbed VG in 510s, you might check their forums for an already set-up motor.

[Alvin]

Is this the VG "look" you are after?

[Tacoma311]

Alvin. You never fail to amaze,! I'm digging it Yes. There are some great builds going on with this engine. Up to 3.6 l8tr. that I am aware of, maybe more. About the only thing to work out would be the bump in the bonnet. I'm sure the builder has got it sitting as low as possible in the bay. Wonder if by scooting engine back and creating a different throw for shifter if it would allow for lowering further and give added elevation of hood line to clear? Great pic! Thanks.

[Alvin]

Alvin. You never fail to amaze,! I'm digging it Yes. There are some great builds going on with this engine. Up to 3.6 l8tr. that I am aware of, maybe more. About the only thing to work out would be the bump in the bonnet. I'm sure the builder has got it sitting as low as possible in the bay. Wonder if by scooting engine back and creating a different throw for shifter if it would allow for lowering further and give added elevation of hood line to clear? Great pic! Thanks.

I had a feeling you would dig it!

The hood bump is solely for the old-school carb/air cleaner setup. All of the VG/EFI installs I've seen have absolutely stock hoods. Love to give you more info on the yellow car pictured but I didn't have a chance to talk to the owner. I would ping Harlan (Solvang coordinator).

[devo]

Alvin. You never fail to amaze,! I'm digging it Yes. There are some great builds going on with this engine. Up to 3.6 l8tr. that I am aware of, maybe more. About the only thing to work out would be the bump in the bonnet. I'm sure the builder has got it sitting as low as possible in the bay. Wonder if by scooting engine back and creating a different throw for shifter if it would allow for lowering further and give added elevation of hood line to clear? Great pic! Thanks.

I had a feeling you would dig it!

The hood bump is solely for the old-school carb/air cleaner setup. All of the VG/EFI installs I've seen have absolutely stock hoods. Love to give you more info on the yellow car pictured but I didn't have a chance to talk to the owner. I would ping Harlan (Solvang coordinator).

Call the seller. The number on the for sale sign says 928-978-6557!

[Tacoma311]

2 thumbs up!

[Gregs672000]

Too bad you didn't think of this sooner... I sold my JDM VG30ET, the better 5 speed, intercooler and computer for $500 about 2 yrs ago. It had 215hp and better torque than US version due to a better and actually shorter in height intake manifold vs US. Stock injectors are good to 12lbs of boost but no more, but it was only doing like 5-6 lbs boost stock, no intercooler. I had not heard that there was any problem pushing up the boost some with the stock turbo. Going to 8-10 -intercooled was estimated at an easy 270 hp but with a good deal of torque and not much lag.

You would have to redo the oil pan for an oil return for the turbo, and maybe to clear the frame some, but it was doable. I planned to use the stock exhaust manifolds as much as possible, mount the turbo where the battery sits, and route the exhaust back under the car and possibly through the stock but widened frame holes.

The motor mount template exists, there's a VG30E owner on this Site!

[Gregs672000]

Kinda what I was talking about... https://maxima.org/forums/3rd-generatio ... 595-a.html

[Tacoma311]

Geez someone scored on your deal Greg. If I may, why didn't you go thru with your plan. Sounds like a "Street Beast " in the making. I'm kinda leaning toward the 3.3 as it can be punched out to 3.6 with no worries. Thanks...