Looking for a 2002 or 2001 3800 V6

[ktl711]

I have a 2002 Camaro with the 3800 V6 that's nearing 170,000 miles. It doesn't burn oil, but there are signs that some coolant vapors are condensing on the underneath side of the oil filler cap. So far, no emulsified oil has been showing up in the drain pan, but being realistic, the condensation is surely a sign of the oncoming Apocalypse.

Because this particular car is special to me, I'm trying to keep it as factory as possible (at least for the time being). So when dreaded Day of Reckoning occurs and my engine spins its last RPM, I'd like to be ready with another motor to swap in. Ideally, I'd like a lower mileage engine that was a take-out for an LS1 swap project, but right now I'm just seeing who's got what out there, and what it's going for.

[Phantom409]

Look here: http://www.partsbyweller.com/

I know they have at least 8 LT-1 Camaros, SS, TA's and Formula's.
And yes I know you are looking for an LS car but I wasn't looking for those when I was in there.

[Lucky SOB]

Ok, everyone chant with me...

LS1, LS1, LS1, LS1... LS1

Good luck with the search, the only person I can think of that removed their 3.8 is SMAN. But I do not know the mileage or anything about it.

[white96TA]

wait around here long enough and someone is bound to have a 3.8 out of their car.

[ktl711]

Ok, everyone chant with me...

LS1, LS1, LS1, LS1... LS1

Oh, I hear ya! And don't think that I haven't considered that! Only problem is, I know just where that road would lead me... I won't be able to stop, and one upgrade would lead to another, and another, and...

In order to avoid that situation, I've decided that I want my current Camaro as my "have my cake and eat it too" DD, and when the time comes to satisfy the lust for speed and glory, I'll just get another Camaro that's already an LS1.

But just not yet...

[97rs4life]

a little moisture under the cap is normal at times. I would bet you could get over 200k out of the engine if you don't have coolant in the oil when you drain it.

Also you don't need a 01 or 02 engine. You can use any 3.8 series II or III engine and just swap the intakes and such if it is from a FWD car. If the car is supercharged then you would have to change out the heads too

[lozanoa11]

Yea what travis said. I mean by all means a ls1 swap would be good and a fresh engine in anything never hurts but its totaly normal. Alot of the 3.8's and northstars do it.

[white96TA]

just an idea....will a supercharged 3800 swap in?...that would be my engine choice for it...for a dd

[97rs4life]

just an idea....will a supercharged 3800 swap in?...that would be my engine choice for it...for a dd

short answer no. It is not a direct bolt in due to clearance and routing issues. It takes quite a bit of fabbing to make it work. It has been done a couple times, but the power gain from it makes it not worth it when you can get a turbo or procharger and make better power

[sman]

I sold mine back in may, had 99,000 on it, still ran like a top. Ironicly, the 3.8's are going for WAY more than 5.3s are. Worked well in my favor.

[ktl711]

I sold mine back in may, had 99,000 on it, still ran like a top. Ironicly, the 3.8's are going for WAY more than 5.3s are. Worked well in my favor.

Mind if I ask what you got for it, or did you sell it for a reduced price to a buddy?

[2002Z4CSS]

Some condensation may be normal if the vehicle is driven on short trips and does not get up to operating temp.

[white96TA]

short answer no. It is not a direct bolt in due to clearance and routing issues. It takes quite a bit of fabbing to make it work. It has been done a couple times, but the power gain from it makes it not worth it when you can get a turbo or procharger and make better power

bummer....3800 supercharged engines are dirt cheap