I have a 96 Camaro V6, 3.8, 5 speed that I picked up for free because it has a rod knock, and is need of an engine replacement. I found a motor on Craigslist for $100, but I am still learning about cars, so I'm hoping someone can tell me if the engine I found will work in my car. Here is what the posting says.

I have a 3.8 chevrolet engine. This was originally from an early 80's Camaro when the base models were V6. I had this in a Jaguar MK 2. This has an aftermarket cam. This is essentialy a long block with a water pump. Has around 30K mile from the rebuild. Needs new valve cover gaskets. Strong compct hot rod engine. Comes with factory 2 barrel rochester carb, aircleaner assembly and factory aluminum manifold, chrome valve covers, chrome alternator mount and bracket and a flex plate for turbo 400. No distributor. I have an engine hoist for loading.

Any help or advice would be much appreciated. Thanks!!!
Suzie.

 

First off I am no professional. That being said I am in the mits of putting an old school motor in my own 1994 camaro.

The engine you have in your camaro runs off a computer system for the 96 camaro. This new motor you're eyeing came out of another generation camaro. The computer system more likely will be different. You would need that system and wireharness to make it an easy swap. Otherwise you will have to figure out where each wire goes or is supposed to go. If its the same type of motor like I have you wouldn't need the computer at all. However this poses another problem if your state has emission laws.

Hope some of this helps.

 

The engine in your 96 'maro is fuel injected, the engine you're thinking about buying is carburated. If you don't know ALOT about cars, don't even do think about it. Switching your car over to carburated will be a P.I.T.A.

 

Won't work.

You need a GM 3.8 3800 II F body V6 engine. The 3800 II has been used in MANY GM platforms, most of which power a FWD drivetrain, so I made it clear it needs to be F body, as the F body platform is RWD.