Need some help folks.

My 97 Jimmy broke a piston. She had 178,000 faithful miles on her, so it’s sad to see that motor go. We think the skirt broke off and is about to completely break. In any event, I am in search of a new motor for her. I found one on ebay that has 90,000 miles on it. Problem is, it’s a 2002 motor. What would one need to do to drop that 2002 into my 1997? Is it worth the work or should I focus on finding another 97. If it’s not worth it, tell me what years I can throw in her without doing a wiring harness swap and all that….

Much appreciated for you help, in advance.

Scott

 

If it is a late '02 engine, then there are differences that can be over come. If that is the case, then you will have to use your lower intake manifold, but can use the newer injection spider. You will also have to modify the back of the block to accept the screw in style knock sensor as the mid-02+ engines have a bolt on knock sensor. The pan will also likely be different if you have a stamped steel pan.

Beyond that, it will be a direct bolt in.

 

i'm also in the same position except mine is a 98 4wd. Motor I'm looking at is out of a 02 sonoma 4wd. As far as modifying the block for the knock sensor, what does this require? I'm assuming drilling/tapping. And about the oil pan, would I just have to swap them out or could I just use the one that's on there? Also, the I'm not sure what the production date is on the motor seeing as the vehicle has long been sold. Is there a way to get that from the VIN?

 

Your 98 should have the same oil pan as the 02.

As far as the knock sensor, It would appear that you could drill and tap it for the 1/4" NPT thread of the knock sensor. I believe it is 1/4" NPT anyway.

 

what is the difference in the intake manifolds

 

The later 2002 motor did not have the same EGR valve system that the 96 thru mid-02 engines did. So there was no provision for it machined or cast into the lower intake manifold.