I am in this thread suggesting to do an M62 top swap. This will keep the engine completely Series 1 except for the throttle body, though that can be kept with a bit of tinkering. The only Series 2 stuff would be to change the PCM so that pretty much anyone can tune the car.

PRJ can do great things for a 16/17 yo guy, and it should only cost $75-100 to tune this specific setup because I imagine it would take 2-3 hours. Because of the 8:1 compression, different injectors, and different boost for the RPM range, the tune actually would very slightly vary from stock. This is because Series 2 sensors will be used.

The PCM uses 4 sensors for tuning & such: IAT, MAF, MAP, and O2. IAT is a temp sensor. MAF is taken directly from a Series 2. MAP is taken directly from a Series 2 and bolts straight on. The O2 sensors may be interchangeable, but in case they're not, the Series 2 sensor threads right into the place of the old one. All other stuff stays the same unless certain items like the coolant temp sensor & oil pressure sending unit are different. IIRC, they're NPT and are interchangeable.

Ya, didnt mean to ruffle or slam ya Rad, I just started reading through the thread and thought alot of overwhelming/conflicting info. We need to know more about his ability and location. Your suggestions are valid and not to expensive. I am all for older SE members doing top swaps to get acquainted with modding. Lets keep responsible about it and relate the dangers. Many do it and results arent great but are appreciable. But it will quicken the aging of the engine and for some, their car is a necessity.

Sounds good to me. Thanks for clarifying! ILOVEMYBONNE, please let us know the budget and your mechanical ability. If I could just have one more Series 1 L67, I'd show personally how it'* done. But now we may depend on ILMB to provide pictures and documentation. How up for it are you?