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Has anybody ever replaced the 3.8 in a non GXP with the 4.6?

Old Oct 22, 2006 | 12:31 PM
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Default Has anybody ever replaced the 3.8 in a non GXP with the 4.6?

Or does anybody know how difficult it would be?
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Old Oct 22, 2006 | 01:06 PM
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Should be relativly easy as I think the 4.6 is the N*.. Just swap parts out. Engine tranny, induction, maybe downpipe, ECM, lots of wiring...
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Old Oct 22, 2006 | 01:08 PM
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Engine subframe is unique also, I think.
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Old Oct 22, 2006 | 01:12 PM
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As is the front suspension to hold the weight. Axles, PCM, drivetrain, suspension etc.

If you're after more power, stick with the 3800. There'* very little (none) aftermarket for the Northstar. Do an L67 swap if you're L36. An L67 is quicker than a 4.6 anyway.
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Old Oct 22, 2006 | 01:24 PM
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Ditto on the L67 swap if you're after easy power.

A better V8 would be the LS4 from the GP GXP. Again, I think you'll have to do some custom motor mounts, etc. The LS4 is a Gen IV engine, so it has a huge aftermarket, but again, the L67 will be cheaper to get in, and more power out of intially.
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Old Oct 22, 2006 | 07:13 PM
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All of these points are right on. The 4.6 doesn't have any bragging rights, and the L67 swap has been done a few times here.

In case you don't know, the L67 is the supercharged 3.8. There are two versions, Series 1 with 205-220 hp, and Series 2, with 240 hp.
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Old Oct 22, 2006 | 11:45 PM
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Well...

Do loud Northstars sound good? I haven't found a non-stock 3800 exhaust sound that I liked.

But the L67'*, err, Eaton supercharger'* whine will get you addicted
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Old Oct 23, 2006 | 03:16 AM
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thats all a personal opion of what sounds good...

Originally Posted by F14CRAZY
Well...

Do loud Northstars sound good? I haven't found a non-stock 3800 exhaust sound that I liked.

But the L67'*, err, Eaton supercharger'* whine will get you addicted
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Old Oct 23, 2006 | 04:30 AM
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if you are after some serious power...just buy something with an LS7

But if you wanna keep the bonne in the family, go with what everyone else said, just do an L67 swap, or just buy a supercharged Bonneville! There is definitely a HUGE aftermarket for the Series II 3800

Oh and if you have a Bonneville...please put your year and trim in your signature please.
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