So what is the reason for the L26 swap, anyhow? Problems with the old or just wanting more from a 3800? Curious... ;) Was the L32 ever a consideration?

The advantages of the L26 over the L36 are larger intake valves (by .030, it is not alot but it does help) and chances are the L26 engine will have lower miles since it did not even come out till 2003/4. And with the cam profiles and compression ratio the same between the engines you dont have to worry about the computer needing a tune.

Massey