VZ tonner engine swaps

[LeviAbercromby]

Hey guys, first time posting here. I got myself a vz one tonner S recently and I want to look at my options for engine conversions down the line. It's currently just the stock alloytech and 4speed auto but it's got 320,000km on it so I don't plan on trying to get over a year with it. I also can't just sell it and buy an SS as this car was a gift from a friend for my first car and my folks simply won't let me buy an SS. I want to do the work with my old man as well so if anyone can tell me exactly what options I have and what I'd need to change then I'd really appreciate it. Thanks guys

 

[MuckUte]

Barra, turbo. Depends on how much work you want to do. Low k alloytech easiest.

 

[Ginger Beer]

LS, all bolt in and you can register it fairly easy

Buy any whole VZ or later V8 wreck from the auction or wrecker for a doner car

 

[LeviAbercromby]

LS, all bolt in and you can register it fairly easy

Buy any whole VZ or later V8 wreck from the auction or wrecker for a doner car

That's what I was thinking of doing, I'd just drop the K frame on both and swap the new one in. Would you know about wiring stuff and I'd need a new transmission as well wouldn't I?

 

[LeviAbercromby]

Barra, turbo. Depends on how much work you want to do. Low k alloytech easiest.

Kinda want to keep it Holden to make the swap easier and for the authentic feel but that did cross my mind

 

[Fu Manchu]

That's what I was thinking of doing, I'd just drop the K frame on both and swap the new one in. Would you know about wiring stuff and I'd need a new transmission as well wouldn't I?

It’s not that easy. You also need all the wiring that manages all the cars systems.

It’s nothing like the old days when you changed drive train parts and one or two wires.

The engine management systems are complex and inflexible.

 

[Fu Manchu]

One of the best conversion guides on YouTube. Seems like a great bloke too.
It’s a V6 Tonner to turbo LS.
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLx0GHTNi9tnpKw4UQwZZ1uqK9PXZgOHgg