For 89-90 240SX, gauge cluster must be upgraded to 91-93 S13 240SX or use the cluster off Jspec Silvia/180SX's because the tachometer off the 89-90 240SX are not compatible with the SR swap. Power steering must be customed to fit the SR20DET or change to 91-93 240SX power steering system. Custom A/C bracket is needed to use the factory compressor on the SR20 or custom hardlines to fit the SR compressor. The drive shaft for 89-90 S13 will be alittle short but can still be used for the SR swap.
For 91-93 S13 240SX's, SR swap is pretty much straight foward. The only modifications needed is for the a/c system. Either custom a/c bracket for factory compressor to SR motor or custom hardlines to fit SR compressor. Power steering and gauge cluster are both compatible for the SR swap.
For 95-98 S14 240SX's, SR swap is identical to that of the 91-93 S13 240SX's, difference only in A/C system fabrication and wiring.
S15 SR20DET:
We do not recommed installing the S15 SR20 motor due to high cost and time consuming install. S15 utilize a weak 6spd transmission with their speed sensor relocated to the rear differential. Be sure to get the complete rear end and drive shaft along with the S15 motor package, otherwise install will not be complete. Also besure that there is this black box that should accompany the main engine harness. The S15 black box take replacement of the S13/S14 ignitor chip, and without the black box you will not be able to fire up the S15 motor. Even though S15 is a direct drop in motor, you must custom some sort of transmission mounting. The S15 6 speed transmission is a whole new platform away from the S13/S14 240SX's.
basic engine info
S13 91-93 red top/ s13 94-98 black top Horsepower: 205ps at 6000rpm Torque: 203 ft/lbs at 4000rpm Turbocharger: Garrett T25 Fuel Injection: 370cc/min Redline Begins: 7500rpm
When you are ready to do the SR install yourself, make a check list of things you need to do with the install. From our experience, we recommend to do the following same time with the install:
1. Air filter kit - such as HKS SMF DD, HKS racing suction, greddy airnix, Apex-i, Blitz LM and SUS filter, etc.
2. Downpipe upgrade - blitz stainless, hks mild steel or stainless, 5 zigen mild steel, greddy mild steel, etc.
3. Catback upgrade - dual 60mm or 80mm piping atleast to many to list
4. Boost gauge - ditto
5. Turbo timer - hks makes one w/ harness kit, hks harness can be adapted to apex-i, blitz. greddy timer etc.
6. New clutch kit - ACT, Spec, HKS, Blitz: stock clutch kits for sr20det.
7. 300ZX fuel filter - trip to nissan dealer
8. 300ZX TT or Supra TT Denso fuel pump upgrade - or walboro this is required or u might damage ur engine
9. Stock or aftermarket intercooler kit - many choices
10. 300ZX NGK / Denso spark plugs (gap to 0.030) - nissan dealer or autozone/ kragen will have these
11. 4 quart of 10w30 generic oil (to be changed out at first 500 miles), afterwards Synthethics welcome.
When you have all the parts ready for the swap, you must prep the SR motor before dropping it in:
Removal of the stock SR AIV solenoid and weld the recirculation port off the turbo O2 housing shut (S13 SR only).
Check oil pan for any signs of dent or damage.
Change to the KA speed sensor as well as the transmission sensors.
Check the condition of the fan clutch. Ditch the stock fan clutch if bad, and run aftermarket electric fan.
Check stock turbo for shaft play and condition. Check condition of the SR engine mounts, KA engine mounts can be used but we highly recommend upgrade to the Nismo 3pc mounts ($280) or brand new Nissan KA mounts.
Check condition of the drivebelts, replace if needed.
I've got a 1989 nissan 240 and I'm looking to put in a CA18DET. I know this is a little smaller than what most people are putting in, but will this make my instal any easier? Are there any drawbacks other than lack of maximum power?
