The engine in my XJR is shot. I found a replacement, but it's going to cost about $2000 in labor to do the swap. I have swapped engines and trannys back in the day, and have done most of the repairs on this car, so I have tools and a fair amount of mechanical ability. I have more time than money, so it might be worth spending 20-30 hours doing this project. I will be replacing hoses and gaskets before installing the new engine.

Can anyone provide their experience/wisdom on performing the engine swap? Am I going to get in over my head?

Thanks

 

If you're just swapping a bare engine that is the same as the one that's shot, and transferring all the old ancillaries and electronics over, you shouldn't have too many problems. Trouble starts when people put in electronic stuff related to the engine that then needs matching to the car, and the use of factory electronic programmes.

 

Thanks Fraser. I am installing the same stock engine from the same year and model. Same 8th digit vin.

 

Probably the easiest/safest way is to remove the gearbox, then pull the engine. Install replacement engine and then the gearbox.

If you have a car lift you might try to drop the subframe and engine/trans as a unit onto some hydraulic tables with wheels.

bob