Minimum necessary components for RB25 swap?

[Dustin_S]

after 250K wonderful miles, the timing chain on my KA24DE has finally failed. Valves are shot, oil pump is probably shot (haven't gotten that far down yet). Long story short, i'm considering going ahead with the RB25 swap. I've been researching for a few hours using NICOclub.com's very well put together swap guide (http://www.nicoclub.com/archives/rb25de ... x-s13.html).

However, as money is an issue, my first need is to get the car running again. To that end, i'd prefer not to spend money on components that are not strictly necessary to get the engine into the car and the car moving. While i'm certain such obvious things like the engine, transmission, MAF, ECU, the r33 crossbraces (i'm planning on going with the syko performance install kit) are necessary, the article also lists such components as a Front mount intercooler, pusher fans, an oil catch tank, and a few other odds and ends. How many of those components are absolutely necessary for the engine to power the car?

For instance, the FMIC. I know not every turbocharger requires an intercooler. But is the turbo on the RB25 susceptible to heat damage if an intercooler is not installed? Oil catch pans can go a long way towards maintaining the life of your engine, but necessary? I don't think so. Or am i wrong?

From what i know, the only thing i really *need* to get this engine in and working is the engine/transmission/MAF/ECU/wiring harnesses, r33 crossbrace, Rb25 compatible clutch,the mounting kit (syko) and the driveshaft.

If i'm wrong, constructive feedback is greatly appreciated!

[MissMollyAnnax0]

This is just a thought, but if you're looking to save money and just get your car running, it might not be time for the rb swap yet. Between motor mounts, drive shaft, radiator, intercooler/piping, wiring harness, etc etc we put a few thousand into it. Obviously we didn't buy the cheapest parts ever, but it's not exactly the poor man's swap.

[sebazztard]

yeah wow. why would you want to cut corners? i understand getting a car running because you need a vehicle, just pop in another ka or find a beater. i havent even touched my car in years because of how much its going to cost to get it completely swapped. buying the motor swap is half the battle/$$$.

[10psitx]

If you are on a budget, stay KA, not to sound harsh but you're asking about running a turbo engine that came from the factory with a intercooler with out one. That question leads me to believe you dont understand the function of an intercooler. If you don't understand that then don't attempt a swap or this magnitude with a limited budget. Believe me the big stuff cost money but the little thing nikle and dime you to death....hoses, clamps, brackets, wiring, fuel pump, exhaust, drive shaft, radiatior, fans, fan controller, new mounts, replacement engine seals, plugs, waterpump, the list goes on. Dont cheap out you will regret it!

[Razi]

An RB swap is gonna cost time and money.
If you go that route when you're tight for either, you're gonna have a car sitting on your driveway for a long time.

If money is an issue, find a KA for cheap and drop that in.

[Dustin_S]

Thanks for all the concern, but in fact the swap is already started. The engine came with a damaged shifter, but other than that, everything looks good.

[10psitx]

Well in that case good luck and keep us posted on your progress....

[breadbox]

By an isis shifter off enjuku to replace shifter, you may need to reuse rb25 shifter bushing.
Definitely get either some stock SMIC piping and intercooler used or a ebay kit.
Mounting is up to you, there is a ton of info on this swap. A lot of examples of people cheaping out or half assing their motors into thrown rod bearings and chewed up pistons.

Do it right take your time.