Re: [DML] Re: GM Engine

["Richard Cutter" <dmc_power@xxxx>]

[MODERATOR NOTE - Richard will finish this discussion - as a long-time conversion operator he does know the rules. As he mentions, there are many differing state laws on this, ranging from what you can do to who's inspecting, so discussion without the context of where you live is not very fruitful. End of thread for now unless it pertains to DMC rather than generic engine swap questions.]


Greetings Walt....

I will answer your question as well as some things brought up in other
replies..
Cadillac introduced the Northstar in the early 90's and with some internal 
and few external modifications it is still here... Available with 300 hp, 
275 hp, and 250 hp ( Old's Aurora engine )
All engine control electronics and emission controls are reconnected, 
although I have not tried it the limp home waterless mode should work as 
designed....
As per modifying a "D" for a front engine, I guess it would be possible but 
don't ask me to do it....

As per cost.... New car pull-outs ( less than 5 miles ) cost over $ 5,000 
for engine, accys, electronics...( remember this is a high tech engine out 
of a $45,000+ car ) Now add to that transmission modifications, custom bell 
housing, mounting hardware ( all custom ), plumbing, A/C Lines, mounts, 
etc... etc... Now labor... lots of it...
Recovery of development costs, it all adds up fast...
Performance costs money, no way around it...
Pound per horse-power it is better than the Corvette...

As per emission - If the engine is of equal or lower emission and of the 
same year or newer, and all emission controls are connected and present the 
Feds are happy. Some states do not allow an engine of more than stock 
number of cylinders - V6 to a V8 - although I know of only one state that 
has this law...

I have to admit the "D" is a cruiser not a dragster, but it is nice to have 
the power when needed to pass on a mountain upgrade, or when ever needed...

All "D"'s are fun great cars and one of the best values out there...


Rich Cutter


> From: "Walter" <Whalt@xxxx>

> Richard,
>
> I would love to hear more about your Cadillac Northstar engine conversion.
> Can you say what models & years Cadillac have these engines? Were you able
> to hook up all the associated electronics to allow the engine to run on
> 'limp home' mode with no radiator coolant?
>
> I was talking to a local Camero affectionado who thinks that his LS-1 block
> is the same size as the Northstar V8. Is this so? He says that the block
> is available in aluminum. If it would fit, it would make a lot more sense
> to use since more aftermarket parts are available. I just don't see old 
> men
> at car shows tricking out their Caddies like I do with kids & their Chevys.
>
> I would like to consider installing a front wheel drive engine &
> transmission in place of the DeLorean stuff.