Why isn't the L81 3.0L DOHC from the Saturn L series a popular swap? I figured the DOHC, aluminum heads, and FWD setup would make it a great start for a fiero swap. Is it because there is little aftermarket support? I don't know much about these engines but my mom has a '03 L300 with the L81 and it feels like a decent motor for that size car.

Has anyone attempted this swap? I'd like to see how it might turn out. Torque monsters are nice but since I want to stick with a Manual transmission, a DOHC might be the way to go ( and I keep hearing the 3.4 DOHC isn't a very good motor but that's not my opinion and it isn't the subject of this discussion please , I'd just like to find an alternative DOHC) Thanks for any info that is brought up.

Straight from Wikipedia ... this engine has a notable history for recalls of all units installed in U.S. Cadillac Cateras due to problems with timing belt tensioner bearing failures, which could cause catatrophic damage to the engine..

So...might not be the best option. IMO

If you read more, that model of the L81 is (i think) bored out to a 3.2L. it's slightly different in some way or another then the classic 3.0L in the saturns.

do they actualy boltup to any of the transmissions? or do they do their own thing?

Bringing this back up,as I have a similar question.

I can't find much info on the 3400DOHC Catera motors being used.
There is one for sale local to me for $300.
It's in a 98 Catera with 135k and I can get the harness/ECM also.
Not gone to look at it yet,and probably get them down on the price.

Bad move?
Not really planning a swap,but if it's drop in except for wiring like I seem to be reading it to be then it's an idea.
I can do wiring and PCM programming,that's easy sauce-keep me away from welders though.

edit - i just spouted some bullshit for another saturn engine i think.

Anyway, for a completely different engine family, why that one? It's got an iron block.

Go for a Nissan VQ35 or something.

A proper clean sheet all aluminium DOHC V6, up to date in the 21st century.

[This message has been edited by pmbrunelle (edited 10-12-2009).]

DefEddie-
The Catera never had a 3400dohc. It only came with the 3.0L L81 motor. The 3.2L motor mentioned above was in the CTS, the replacement for the Catera.

And no, its not going to be a direct drop in by any means......

If you want a direct bolt in engine, you will have to stick with the 60 degree V6 family such as a 3.4L. I have not done one of those swaps but there is plenty of information here if you search.

It seems to me you are looking for a reasonable engine to swap in? Do your research my friend. There are so many documented swaps on this forum, you need to find out which one suits your needs and skill level, then research some more. I will not dirty this forum with my opinions on which swap YOU should do, but I will tell you that for the amount of work it takes to do any swap, you need to make SURE that is what you want to end up with. There is no worse feeling than just picking a random engine because its available, swapping it in, and not being happy with it.

-Joe