how hard engine swap? 98 altima

[paulmv]

My sister has a 98 altima with a four cylinder. Im considering changing it out for her. the car is an automatic. how hard will this be. Can I bring it out leaving the transmission in the car. Will it come out the top? are there any specialized tools required? I've done engine swaps before in old pickups just never in a front wheel drive.

Any help would be appreciated.

[SteveTheTech]

It's a pretty straight swap if you've done it before. If you pull the hood and have good reach on your engine lift you shouldn't have an issue unless you are doing it in your garage. Then it will be a pita but it can be done. Lining the new motor and trans up are going to be the biggest issue, make sure the dowel pins are there.

GL

[paulmv]

well looks like were doing the transmission and engine. will they both come out the top? also I can either buy them from the wrecking yard out of a car with 80,000 with a six month warranty or buy one of those japanese exchange motors for 200 more and a one year warranty. Any suggestions

[PapaSmurf2k3]

The swap should be pretty easy/straightforward. You should be able to take it out the top, or the bottom.

I'd go with a junkyard motor/trans for $800. It would be a lot easier to put in a warranty claim with them than it would be with Japan. Plus, no surprises with a US-spec to US-spec swap.