Budget six conversion builders, Please tell us how you do it! Options

[anthony]

I compiled the following list of conversion parts. This is just to put a six cylinder engine in the car and doesn't include a 5 lug conversion or suspension mods. So for you guys that throw out low total conversion prices please tell us how you did it and how you cut costs. Often I see references to exceptional deals on engines that can't be easily reproduced or incomplete parts lists that don't include all the parts or headers/exhaust.

[anthony]

John, your input is valued. I started this thread because in the 4 vs. 6 topics we've had recently one of the frequent arguements is that 'one can do a six conversion for $4,000 so why bother with a more expensive four'.

We have a known set of parts required to do a six conversion. Those parts list for about $4500 (not including the cost of the engine). I honestly wanted to know how one shaves the costs. I think this has turned out to be a good topic since I've learned a few things.

So, if (big if IMO) one can fabricate their own tin, weld their own oil cooler mod, weld the shift rod mod, build their own linkage kit, and make their own oil lines they could reasonably shave $1500 off the $4500 over the counter price tag of the conversion parts. That still leaves $3K plus the cost of the engine plus labor. Timo suggested making his own headers and bulkhead mount but I think that is probably unrealistic for most club members contemplating a six.

Out of the 776 people that have viewed the topic only one has done the $4000 conversion and the other is on his way. In both cases it took a way below market deal on an engine and key conversion parts.

I think the conclusion here is that one can reasonably do a six conversion for $3500-4500 plus the cost of the engine. Much less with killer deals and more fabrication. The flip side is that the costs can skyrocket if that inexpensive six cylinder engine turns out to be a dud. That's one thing that people often forget to mention.