QuestionGreg,
thanks for the first reply. When I replace the rod bearings, do I need to install new main cap bolts? I have experience replacing/removing/rebuilding engines in S-10, Grand Am, and 78 and 84 Camaros. I'm a little concerned about the ease of replacing the timing chain. Had a rough time on the Grand Am we did. The replacement motor is suppose to have 80,000 miles.
Thanks,
Craig
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Followup To
Question -
Greg,
I am going to replace a twin cam engine in a 1995 SW2. Should the engine come out the bottom or the top? Are there any good tech related sites on the net?
I'll probably have to buy a Chilton's or GM manual.
Thanks,
Craig
Answer -
Hi Craig,
The engine is pulled from the top. I was able to successfully remove and replace an SL2's engine with only a Haynes Saturn Manual, a floor jack, and a cherry picker (engine hoist). you'll hve to label all the coolant lines, hoses, and most importantly, the wiring connectors and harnesses and fuel lines. I was able to pull the engine with all of the accessories still attached (i.e. compressor, alternator) except the power steering pump has to be removed and set aside (it doesn't need to be disconnected from the power steering box...all hoses can remain attached). I don't know of a site on the web for this proceedure. The Haynes Saturn Manual (about $16( was all I needed. It outlined the job prefectly. If you are using a different year or model engine, you'll need to exchange the crank angle sensor with the one from the original engine or else the Check Engine light will come on all the time...they are unique to each model and year and will work fine BUT report an error to the computer. Outside of that, you can use any year from 1992 to 1997 as long as it is a dual overhead cam engine (SL-2 or SW-2). Also, some models have a different exhaust manifold that wont line up with your current exhaust system. You can simple exchange youroriginal with the new engine's, if need be. Lastly, before you install the new engine, do any maintanance to it that would be otherwise difficult to do with the engine installed. For example: replace the timing chain and spockets BEFORE you install it, replace the thermostat (it is under the hose fitting on the fron of the engine, next to the air compressor, on the head). If it has a lot of miles on the new engine, replace the rod bearing BEFORE installing the engine...turn it upside down, remove the oil pan and replace the rod bearings ONE AT A TIME. It is easy that way and VERY HARD with the engine installed!
Good Luck and you can let me know how it worked out by leaving any feedback comments for me on this allexperts website.
Sincerely,
Greg Moore
www.taylorgolfsupply.com
AnswerHi Craig,
Replacing the Rod Cap bolts is up to you...I ususally don't but that is simply a matter of preferance.
The Timing Set on the Saturn isn't as bad as a Typical GM product but it will take several hours. The kit at a Saturn Dealer cost me $160 complete. You may want to go ahead and do it as the major problem in the SL2 engine design is the Timing Chain Tensioner! That little cast metal part is notorious for getting stuck in the 'IN' position which removes tension from the chain, causes the chain to become too loose and eventually skip a tooth on the cam spockets. Then the valves all get damages..and so on...
With the engine on a hoist, it is not a bad job to do...with the engine in the car...it is nearly impossible. I did my first one in the car...horribly difficult!
At 80,000 Miles, I would recommend it but again, it is more an issue of how well the oil maintance was handled. If the oil was changed on the 3000 mi mark...it will not require replacement. If the oil changes were let go...replace it. The Saturn is a VERY TIGHT TOLERANCE engine and oil starvation spells death for it.
