Thread: How about a 3.8 in an '88?

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  1. #1 How about a 3.8 in an '88? 
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    I like 3.8L engines. I have a 1996 Oldsmobile 98 that has the bulletproof engine and I love it. It has the ultimate compromise as far as power and fuel economy.

    After being chewed out all evening on another forum about wanting to put in a Cadillac 4.5, I have decided I would rather have a 3.8 in my '88 Grand Prix.

    What all is required to do this swap? I have taken automotive classes in school so I know a lot of what needs to be done, but I don't know if it will fit.

    There are a lot of modern Grand Prix's with 3.8s. Has anyone ever tried to put one into the first FWD platform?
    1988 Grand Prix coupe (base): Custom two-tone paint - blue/gray - recently quit at 249,092 miles!
    1999 Ford Explorer - daily driver, stock..... for now!
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  2. #2 Re: How about a 3.8 in an '88? 
    GTX Level Member a98gtp4u's Avatar
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    Whats in the grand prix now?
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  3. #3 Re: How about a 3.8 in an '88? 
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    Being an '88 it came with a 2.8L V6. It still runs ok, on 5 cylinders. But hey, it does have 250,000 miles. Will the stock motor mounts work for the 3.8?
    I know the '88-96 Buick Regal is on the same platform/bodystyle as the Grand Prix. The Regal came with a 3.8 from the factory, so why can't a 3.8 fit in the GP?
    There are alot of old 88's and LaSabre's out in the salvage yards so I don't think it would be hard to find one if I can make it work. What do you think?
    1988 Grand Prix coupe (base): Custom two-tone paint - blue/gray - recently quit at 249,092 miles!
    1999 Ford Explorer - daily driver, stock..... for now!
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  4. #4 Re: How about a 3.8 in an '88? 
    GTX Level Member a98gtp4u's Avatar
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    2.8L TUNED PORT FUEL INJECTION? LIKE THE CAMARO? U could always give it a shot. People now and days customize any motor 2 go in2 any car. Try 2 find some info and see if it will mount up 2 the stock mounts, if not ur gonna have 2 weld some new brackets under the hood for the 3.8 mounts. But like i said, anything is possible.
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  6. #6 Re: How about a 3.8 in an '88? 
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    Thanks guys! I just became a member on that site! I'll keep ya posted on my progress.
    1988 Grand Prix coupe (base): Custom two-tone paint - blue/gray - recently quit at 249,092 miles!
    1999 Ford Explorer - daily driver, stock..... for now!
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