I can't seem to find where GM is offering the RWD version of the ecotec as a crate engine. I have a project in mind that would use one. If I understand it right, the FWD version won't accept a bell housing since the bolt pattern is different.

Any one know if GM is planning on selling the RWD Ecotec as a crate motor or if the FWD version can be adapted for RWD?

Thanks

 

I've seen rock crawlers that use the Ecotec - how are they configuring their drivetrain setup?

 

bellhousing spacers/adapters aren't TOO difficult to make.

 

I'm sure they have the Solstice / Sky crate motor available someplace...

 

Hear is a brand new LNF for $3,452 http://www.crateenginedepot.com/2007...-P2023C61.aspx

 

LNF, you better figure how to get the fuel pump for it, cause you are gunna need something to keep up with the direct injection.

 

LNF going into a Chevette - http://69.94.75.177/forum/showthread.php?t=35479

 

LNF =

i just wish Chevy could advertise it better, showup the Civic Sis with some real power.

 

Thanks for the info so far. I've seen the LNF but I'm actually looking for the LE5. I want to put this in a very small car and the turbo may be a little too big for my taste.

I've read on a few different sites now that people are having trouble getting LNFs from scrapped kappas working. It seems to be a problem with the computer and passlock anti-theft system.

Thanks again!

 

They use just a regular fuel pump on the chassis. Then a second high pressure pump feeds the injectors. That second pump is cam-driven so presumably would come with engine.

 

The LNF and LE5 have the same bellhousing pattern . Look to the Solstice , the LE5 is the base engine .

 

That's cool!

 

Dang, someone stole my idea. (I just couldn't find a Chevette that was buildable.)

 

Okay, I've spent too many hours over the last few days trying to get a handle on all of this and here is what I have discovered:

The LE5 and LNF are based on the "Gen II" ECOtec block

It seems the "Gen II" block is designed for longitudinal or transverse Engine Orientation

The LE5 has been used in the following vehicles:
2006-2008 Chevrolet Cobalt
2006-2008 Chevrolet HHR
2006-2008 Pontiac G5/Pursuit
2006-present Pontiac G6
2006-present Pontiac Solstice
2006-present Saturn Sky
2006-2007 Saturn Ion
2008-present Saturn Aura
2008-present Chevrolet Malibu
2008-present Saturn Vue

the LE9 is the new E85 compatible version of the LE5

I found two bellhousings that work with the Gen II ECOtec. The MA5 is used for manuals like the 5-speed Aisin AR5 manual that can be found on the following models:
2004 to 2008– Chevrolet Colorado
2004 to 2008– GMC Canyon
2006– Pontiac Solstice
2007– Saturn Sky
2007– Hummer H3

The M82 is the 5-speed 5L40-E automatic
Applications:
2004–2006 Cadillac CTS RWD
2005–2006 Cadillac STS RWD
2004–2006 Cadillac SRX RWD
2006 Pontiac Solstice
2007 Saturn Sky
2004–2006 Holden WL Statesman RWD
2004–2006 Holden VZ Commodore RWD
2006- Holden VE Commodore RWD
2008- Pontiac G8

So to wrap this up, the ECOtec now seems like a much more viable option as a transplant into RWD cars now that it can be oriented longitudinal or transverse. The engines and transmissions can come from a wide selection. The one very important thing that I've found is that when getting an engine from the donor car, a ton of the electronics need to come with it. Time to start searching for my project.