A 2000 motor will have the screw in knock sensor same as the 1996 motor. The bolt on KS didn't get implemented until sometime in the 2002 time frame.

 

alright guys one last question... Would a 1995 motor work in my 1996? I looked at it and didnt see any difference in the two motors. Maybe im wrong.

 

The short answer is no. The '95 engine uses the older CPI fuel system and has different heads, intake, & fuel system than your '96 does.

 

So swapping my heads and intake on that would essentially make it the same as mine?

 

Not really. I wouldn't bother with anything older. Stick with '96+ and you'll have a lot less headaches.

 

Alright sounds good thanks for your help I appreciate it alot. What years are compatible with 96 and not changing anything?

 

As I stated above, the '96 through '98 should be a direct drop in replacement without any changes, but check to make sure that there is a port for the ECT sensor near the thermostat housing in the lower intake manifold. I don't think this changed until '99, but check to be sure.

If you aren't afraid of a little drilling/tapping, anything '96 thru end of production would work. You would just have to drill/tap the back of the block for the knock sensor as well as the lower intake manifold at the thermostat housing for the ECT sensor (99 on up).

 

Alright ill have to check that out then. Im not sure if I want to go through the hole replacing of the crank. The weather is getting ****ty here and i need to just get this thing done.

What is the easiest way to put the motor back in also? with trans or with out? and whats the best way to tighten bell housing bolts (especially the top two)

 

I left the trans in place when I did my swap, I also left the front clip in and took all the motor accessories off and lifted the motor straight up and out. Looking back I might have used allen/ hex head bolts for the bellhousing bolts. Those might have been easier to put in or take out in the future.

 

i have everything off too. and thats not a bad idea. thanks for the input i was just hoping for an easier way than how i took it out.