Young and needing help with an engine swap

[Stozza99]

Hey guys and girls.
Im new to this forum and am looking for some help!

Im buying an XH ute, but the motor has to many kilometers for my liking and a few problems. I am just wondering if i can fit a 2003 BA xr6 motor in it with the stock transmission in the XH or if i have to get a different one. Or are there any other ways it can be done, would be great to find out! Or if anyone is even selling a cheap project with everything i need but it will end up being a p plate work car for me! Located in VIC
Cheers!

[Interceptor]

what are the laws in Victoria in regards to engine swaps for P platers?

I know in Queensland you'd need a mod plate or engineers certificate for a BA engine, which would put the swap on the prohibited list for P platers

[Stozza99]

Not sure about what the laws are but when i can id pay for everything to make it roadworthy/register-able but for now its just a project for me to learn in and get experience on doing this sort of stuff.

But would be great if you can help me out with it not physically but through here!


Cheers mate.

[mike_nofx]

I think I would be doing a LOT more research on how engine swaps are carried out before committing to any purchases. I have no idea of your mechanical experience, though being a P plater I'm guessing it's limited. Basically, what you're talking about is nowhere near as simple as engine out, XR6 engine in. It also doesn't stop at the physical swapping of engines, wiring the ECU would be no simple task, brakes would need upgrading, and in the end, it's possible you can't even legally drive it.

Not saying don't do it, just be very prepared before making too many purchases.

[Stozza99]

Yeah i understand it all and have done my research for the last 2 weeks, and have a few qualified mates who are willing to help the whole thing through and i have my cert 3 in automotive so i know the basics around a car and more. But even if it isnt p plate legal it will just be a project to drive later on in life or even a drag project. But the main aim for me at the moment in time is saucing all the parts, getting it all together and a price figure and just getting started on it.

[GASWAGON]

I dont think a Barra engine would even fit under the bonnet of an XH?

And as previously said there would be major wiring issues.

It would'nt be worth all the trouble.

[73 4V XB]

Have a look through the project section. Here's an example of a Barra conversion.
http://www.fordforums.com.au/showthr...rra+conversion

[malazn mafia]

Originally Posted by CoolBFWagon

I dont think a Barra engine would even fit under the bonnet of an XH?

And as previously said there would be major wiring issues.

It would'nt be worth all the trouble.

There are people selling pre-cut sumps, K-Frames, mounts, looms and Ecu's to barrafy any vehicle of your choosing. Some cars that have been done include Nissan Patrol, Toyota Cressida, R33 Skyline, VS Commodore, VL Commodore, VT Commodore, HZ Ute, Landcruiser, EA Falcon, EF/EL Falcon, XB Falcon, XH Ute, XP Falcon, XY Falcon, XT Falcon, E36 BMW 3 Series , Nissan Sylvia , Mercedes W108,

[Xauterus]

The bonnet line of the ef El series on the xh doesn't fit so well. You may be able to lower the engine a bit more.

How many Kms is too many on it?

[Vesper Martini]

That's a lot of time effort and money to put into an old ute.
these projects are normally done for love, not to save money.

Cheaper and easier just to buy a 2003 BA xr6 ute in the first place

[Junkyard-Dog]

I say go for it. Just do your research first and make sure you're prepared. There are people that have already done it that you can learn from.

If I were you I would scour the project cars section of the forum because I know I've seen a few XD/XE/XF/XG/XH conversions to Barra threads about the place. If nothing else this will give you a good idea of what is required and you might even be able to message the people that make those threads to ask for their advice.

Good luck with it all.

[Xauterus]

There is a guy with an XE variety bash car who has done a couple of ba conversions. The engine bay is ef though with an xd rear.

[Stozza99]

Thanks for all the tips and advice but time and how hard it will be is not problem at all. The longer the better for me, but I've also found a guy who sells barra conversation kits on facebook who ill be speaking to soon! But the main aim is as a project and to have fun especially with all the mates to come help in the shed.

But i would like to know what the easiest way would be and cheapest too that would be great!
Cheers guys!!

[XH347]

Hey Stozza99

I am just following up how your project went?
I am also starting a Barra conversion, and I have done a lot of research and found that it is not as difficult as many make out.

It annoys me when people give you advice like "You will need to upgrade the brakes" or "Don't do it, it's not worth it" when they haven't actually done it themselves.

If you're using an XR6 non turbo engine, then you don't need to upgrade the brakes. This came straight from a Vicroads VASS engineer!
And the wiring is the easiest issue to resolve as there are standalone harnesses that solve the problems for you.

I hope you had luck with your project.

Cheers mate

[Tonz]

you wont get am answer, he got all hot and excited in '17, posted 4 times then disappeared