I'm getting ready to begin to start thinking about maybe doing an engine swap into my 88 wagon.

I have a few goals, therefore a few questions on what would be the best route to take.

Goals: 1. Low budget 2. 30mpg at least highway 3. Reasonably simple, as I have not done a swap before.

 

Questions: 1. What would I get for a 0-60 time with just an ej22 swap, keeping the EA S/R 4wd trans? 2. Would mpg suffer much if I went with an ej awd trans? How much more work is that? 3. Are there some cheap, easy hp upgrades to the ej22 I can do while the motor is out? 4. Is an ej22t that much faster, and worth the premium fuel/ lower mpg?

I would love to drive a wrx, but...$$$

cams are about all that's worth doing as far as mods on the non turbo EJ22. Deltacams will set you up, they are members here.

 

i would expect 30 mpg out of an EJ22, but others that have one can comment. i thought there was a mpg for lifted rigs thread?

 

you need to source some parts and price compare. EJ22, EJ trans, EJ22T is a HUGE price range.

 

seems like simple Ej22 swap would be the best starting point. they're so cheap and the obvious choice for budget constraints.

 

if all goes well you'll know you can EJ22T it later.

Any turbo is a LOT more work. Stick with an NA if you are on a budget.

 

GD

if you want a consistent 30mpg out of a EJ22 you'd better bust out your best granny driving shoes...a better motor for that would be a EJ18....with an ej18 you should get low to mid 30's without trying too hard.

 

plus if you swap the mpfi ej18 into your wagon the ej22 is pretty much a plug and play swap at a later date