Time to go through what it takes to do a 2zz-ge engine swap in the MR2 Spyder. I go through the parts you need and what the cost as well as why you would want to make this swap.
The 1ZZ felt so disappointing at first but then I realized that it's such a good engine. It's extremely economical, low maintenance, and can last you a very long time. It's such a shame that is so under powered and doesn't seem to fit the car. I'm guessing Toyota didn't want the MR2 Spyder to de-throne the Elise/Exige since it's such an economical car with similar performance. If the MR2 Spyder came with at least 200HP, It would've been a legendary sports car.
It is the same engine that is in the Lotus Elise. It fits the car perfectly. It is basically a cheaper alternative to the Lotus Elise. Don't worry if you reach the 85 mph speed half a second later. I don't know what you need so much horsepower for in such a light sports car. It won't be hauling. That is for sure. 🤷♂
And just so everyone knows, YES you need the C60 transmsission also.. If you dont, the 5 speed just wont keep the engine in lift nearly as easily as it should. The trans is like $500, its a must. I have a 03 Matrix XRS with "fresh" JDM swapped 2ZZ (from a Corolla Run-X) and the 6 speed is so great. Close-ratio 1-5 with a super overdrive 6th gear, I love rowing through this gearbox!
Where are you finding a C60 transmission for $500? Cheapest I've found in working condition is $800-$900 with higher miles (90K+), and ones with lower miles (
Fot those looking for the rundown on costs - skip to 10:11. Short summary: 2k for the car, 2.5k for engine and transmission, 3k other parts, so 7-8k without labor.
i love that our little mr2 spyder, pretty rare to see nowadays, still has great support like this. the forums have been a great help; haven't taken the 2zz plunge yet but it looks fun
Thanks for taking the time to make this! Just picked up my mr2, gunna take my time but hoepfully therell be some 2zz's stil floating around when Im ready for the swap
I highly recommend the Apexi Power FC stand alone when you're in the market for a computer upgrade. I also went with PPE Engineering headers. And don't forget to swap the throttle position wires.
Will Worrell - Super Happy. I have a daily driver with everything working like it came from the factory and the performance is terrific. So much fun to drive.
Awesome!!!Toyota made a misstep not equipping the car w the 2zz to begin with. As a new car option it probably would have been maybe $1500. And 15 years after production, it would be a lot cheaper and easier to swap out a rebuilt 2zz engine now.
@@wddub9075 If this car was built with the 2zz and 6 speed with a nice tune it would have been so much more popular. It really is the way it should have been.
Great videos! I’m getting close to swapping the engine myself and your videos are helpful to get some knowledge. Also trying to keep everything CARB legal which is a huge pain. Guessing you aren’t in CA since you got non-CARB header, intake, etc?
You are correct. 1ZZ and 2ZZ may displace the same, but the 1ZZ has a longer stroke, aiding the low end and it's better for turbocharging as there's better low down performance before the bolt on turbo is spooled
But then you have turbo problems.. Lag, heat, weight, cost, boost coming on mid corner etc. Most people building these cars want a track car where all of the above problems really get in the way of your goals.
@@izzy031096 lol all that would be a problem if you where going for some riddiculous 400HP build, but a modest 220HP would be doable and easy to manage. That's what tuning and common sense driving skills are for.
very good videos helped me with my swap... good lifter bolt video mine broke off when I removed it... Also Where does the vacuum line from the back of the 2ZZ... Thanks keep the videos coming
A bit late but would you reccomend getting the rebuilt engine from monkey wrench racing for about $2000 before shipping or just find a jdm importer near me?
I have not dyno tested the car but with the intake, exhaust and custom tune in the computer I would not be surprised if it was in that ballpark. She really goes when you get on it.
Gonna correct you on something here. In stock form a 1zz-fe is 140hp. A 2zz-ge is 180hp in lift. That is not a 50% increase at all. It's closer to a 30% increase. Now factor in the the fact that daily driving you will spend more time out of lift than in it. Outside of lift, a 2zz-ge produces around 140hp as well. However, outside of lift the 2zz-ge has less torque than a 1zz-fe. Unless you keep it in lift you will not see any real performance increase. Now don't get me wrong, the 2zz-ge is a fun engine and a worthwhile upgrade to the MRs, just keep in mind how much it costs for it's performance. If you have a good 1zz-fe, going 2zz-ge isn't really worth it when you can just get a turbo kit from MWR for the same price as the swap and end up with more power lower down the rev range.
truealchiemist .... the 2zz has higher RPM, stronger internals, easier to modify, etc. it’s overall better engine.. do you even own an MR-S or even have it swapped with a 2zz? If not then shut the fuck up, if you do then sell the car because you don’t know shit. 2zz can reach up to 400hp and the 1zz probably only 230hp before it can get fucked up or need forged internals.
Thank you so much for this video. Very informative. I would love to do this swap. Have you any details for contacts in Japan that sell and export JDM 2ZZ engines and transmission?
I achieved a 50% increase in power at the wheels in my s14 Silvia (200SX) SR20DET for $1600 AUD. Including parts, labour, dyno tune, exhaust and FMIC. please don't get me wrong, I have owned many Toyotas and Nissans and like both brands. I was just amazed at the easy power you can get from a SR20DET still running sensible boost.
@@timsmith854 You could do the same from the 1ZZ, I don't know why people insist on the 2ZZ because that costs a fortune and a bad mechanic could dismantle your car. A simple turbo kit would get you the power you need for much cheaper, although the 6 speed would be nice.
How much should I look to spend in labor if I bring all parts to a mechanic? I have a 2003 matrix xrs, 2000 mr2 and a 01 gts ecu Also, is there a carb legal header? Or can I use the header from my 2zz?
Honest the C60 transmission is garbage (Coming from a 2zz celica owner) Ratio wise they are pretty good but they are just not strong. My 2nd gear started crunching now wont engage at all and my 4th gear has always had a crunch, Getting my transmision rebuilt soon. My mate with the 2zz corolla has the same 4th gear crunch and had a 2nd gear crunch when shifting at high rpms. If you go through the process of engine swapping to a 2zzge might as well open the gearbox and put some carbon syncros in there. only like $50 per gear and should only take a few hours to do if you already have the box on the floor.
Two questions that anybody who knows can answer: 1. Is the 2zz head with the VVTC compatible with the 1zz bottom end? If so are the bottom end internals the same? 2. Can you re-sleeve a 2zz block or hone the cylinder sleeve walls?
I'm not an expert on this, but the bore and stroke on the 2zz is different than the 1zz, so I don't think you can bolt it on. Not to mention, of course, you have the VVTL in addition to the VVTi. I think it uses oil to do that and I'm not sure where it gets that from. You cannot hone the walls because the cylinders use some funky material, but I do think they can be sleeved and Monkey Wrench Racing uses a place called Darten (sp?). Hope this helps.
thank you so much for making this video!!! I have a question about the exhaust. Can you put the diaper back on with the new exhaust? cause I want to get the dual out, but the diaper won't fit. just wondering will the single fit ?
Exhaust is also big expense. I am try to find a kit the "exhausts" on each side of the license plate. Think it is possible...Would look so nice.....and cannot find reason why it is not offered. (would not be feasible on my MK2 that had storage space, but should be on the MK3) Please comment as you know more than me at this point in build. P
Monkeywrenchracing has a dual exhaust option. It is expensive. They have a header that connects to the 2zz but lets you use original parts after that so you can have more exhaust options as well. The one I chose is more expensive but is larger diameter for some more performance.
What do I need to do before hand? I bought mine friday (sunday today) and looking at what kinds of modifications are required before the swap. So... change all the fluids, full inspection, detail the interior and exterior, gut the pre-cats, add sway bars and support struts, brakes... But other than that, what other handling requirements are needed before increasing the power?
The only handling mod I have done so far is an under brace. If you have a 2000 to 2002 you are going to need some other bracing under the front and back. Otherwise the car handles the new engine fine. I am going to do coil overs soon and do need a front strut bar. The back brace is pretty good as is. I will do sway bars if needed after the coil overs.
Coil Overs or Koni's with lowering springs should be top priority. The car sits a little high on the stock suspension. There are a lot of thoughts on stiffening the car up on spyderchat so be sure to check it out.
I felt very lucky to find the deal on the MR2 that I did. You have to be on Craigslist every day to find them. There was a 2002 MR2 with a bad clutch for $2,300 just a few weeks ago here. It went went fast though.
This was my first engine swap so I wanted to keep it as simple as possible. Plenty of parts and info available for the 2zz swap as well. I am very happy with the performance it has given.
StarkReality my motor is blown and I want an easy swap. If you don’t mind me asking what motor did you use and did it fit or did you have to custom anything to make it fit and what about the computer did you use the same one on mr2 or did u use a different one?
The easiest thing is to put in another 1zz. Next easiest is a 2zzge. There are also items for doing a Honda K series swap. Those are the easiest. If you want to know everything needed for the 2zz swap check out my other videos. I cover everything.
The cheapest C5 Corvette in my area is $13K most are $15K and up and you are still left with a front engine corvette. The Spyder is far cheaper just slightly higher power to weight ratio, mid-engine and super unique. Don't get me wrong, I like Vette's but they can be dime a dozen and most people don't even know what the MR2 Spyder is.
@@StarkReality Agree on the "uniqueness" standpoint. But there are several mint high mileage C5's around me right now for under $10k. In fact one just popped up with a clean 100k miles, for $9500, looks beautiful and has blacked out Z06 wheels along with some other mods I'm sure (It's got Texas plates). A MINTY FRESH 100k mileage 2001 Z06 just popped up yesterday for only $11.5k !!!!!!
@CoaCHSNiPeR They will both run forever and are both cheap to repair. It's a no brainer -- chevy LS series for the win. Especially when you factor in the LS gets the same MPG and has like 200 more hp LOL
EMH - There is a lot of info out there but it is not consolidated which is one reason I decided to document my project. The 2zz is actually terrific as an every day. With a tuned computer it is a joy to drive.
Sid the 1zz hace catylitic converter problems? I have heard about it by anothee youtuber, but he had a 2001 model. I am looking to buy an MR-S that is a 2004 year model, and I am cautious on it. It has 57'000 miles, and if I decide to buy it, I am taking it to toyota to check the converter's condition, and maybe replace it.
It is the pre-cats that are the issue with these cars. Mine had 300,000 miles on the engine and it was shot. So I don't know if the pre-cats had been an issue. Getting it checked is a good idea. If they are still in the system you should be looking for oil burning.
@@officialpennsyjoe The system is more free flowing, you don't get debris in your engine causing oil burning and the engine will last longer. I am not aware of it causing emission problems but that could be different in some States.
You would need a new header for the exhaust and ecu for sure. Not sure on engine mounts for the Celica. I am probably not thinking of something but it is a pretty straightforward swap.
They added a lot of bracing starting in 2003 which helped a lot but more bracing is a popular upgrade and there are a lot of options. Once the car is running well I will see what it needs. So true about the Elise though.
I noticed that on the video that you broke down.....your header was a monkey wrench and in this video you show the PPE......any reason for this change ?
hmm okay.. I found a 2zz engine 6spd and ecu close to me for about 2.5..just figured with all the extras you need the price would be about the same since they claim you only need intake and exhaust to complete the swap with the MWR kit
You will have to add things up. Engine, transmission, swap harness puts you at $4K before shipping from MWR. You still need intake and exhaust. Certainly saves time and some trouble.
StarkReality okay ...still don't even have the car yet just googling right now I see one in my area for 4K "blows smoke needs a rebuild " gonna try to talk the guy down but says 4K firm lol
For the engine itself you do not have to do anything other than use the original wiring harness. To use the 6 speed trans you do have to modify it to work in the rear. I cover everything in other videos.
More or less, yes. You can get away without buying some of these items and adapting what you have and you will end up needing plenty of maintenance items but this is everything I used.
@@StarkReality thanks for the vid! Nice job. I've always had an interest in Spyders but I am put off by the reliability of 1zz engines (precat incidents). Did you have issues with the 1zz before the swap?
@@ioannislampros2786 I bought this MR2 with 300,000 miles on the original engine. It was shot but I planned to do the swap anyways so it is what I wanted. I never really drove it with a 1zz but it clearly did alright with 300K on the odometer.
You certainly could but you will have to make that call based on the engine you get. I ended up doing more work on it than I planned but that was because of my own mistakes.
@@StarkReality I HAVE SOURCED A JDM 2zz with a 6 spd for 21 hundred bucks....have heard that all Japanese 2zz have the 6000rpm-8250 rev limit.....so that would be one less thing to purchase.....
the 2zz swap is overrated and the engine isn't that reliable, that's why they stopped putting them in the celica, though i love the craftsmanship and the spirit, people should really look into going with the 2ar-fe swap. N/A 205whp and the engine is bulletproof.
For me it was the simplicity of the swap combined with the performance improvement. My first swap so I liked the idea it was straightforward and there was a lot of info out there. I am very happy with it.
You forgot to mention that the 1zz-fe engine is ok until 200,000km - afterwards its a complete trash engine with heaps of major problems. oil leaks, eating shit loads of oil, valves leaks, pistion ring sticks etc
My factory original 1ZZ MR2 Spyder with 411,000km begs to differ. No leaks, no need to add any oil, good compression, no strange noises. I commend the original owner for the headstart. A properly maintained 1ZZ can go the distance with no issues.
You are one of the lucky people. Not sure what yr model u got. But I have a 2000 model. And it's starting to break down. Going to do a 2zzge conversion
Mine is an early 2002. The previous owner got rid of the precats very early on. It has been on synthetic oil since 50K and was meticulously maintained. I do have a spare 2ZZ laying around from my Celica with a lot of upgrades but the only reason I might do the swap eventually is for more power. I'd like to make it to 500,000km on the 1ZZ first. Probably one of the highest mileage MR2 Spyders out there.
StarkReality yeah it is. Better car then the spider I think except I really envy how you're 700lbs lighter! Like seriously it makes me consider trading my s2000.
At 2,190 lbs from the factory it is a very light car. It is quite easy to drop a few more pounds and get down to 2,000. Makes for a fun little scooter.
![АЛАУДИНОВ у Скабеевой: эти их ВСУ нас НЕ ДОГОНЯТ 😁 [Пародия]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/an0anqU4WGQ/mqdefault.jpg)
The 1ZZ felt so disappointing at first but then I realized that it's such a good engine. It's extremely economical, low maintenance, and can last you a very long time. It's such a shame that is so under powered and doesn't seem to fit the car. I'm guessing Toyota didn't want the MR2 Spyder to de-throne the Elise/Exige since it's such an economical car with similar performance. If the MR2 Spyder came with at least 200HP, It would've been a legendary sports car.
yeah 200hp wouldv been perfect. would save us all the work of swapping!😂
160hp, 8300rpm, NA motor. 2000lbs. Legend.
It is the same engine that is in the Lotus Elise. It fits the car perfectly. It is basically a cheaper alternative to the Lotus Elise. Don't worry if you reach the 85 mph speed half a second later. I don't know what you need so much horsepower for in such a light sports car. It won't be hauling. That is for sure. 🤷♂
And just so everyone knows, YES you need the C60 transmsission also.. If you dont, the 5 speed just wont keep the engine in lift nearly as easily as it should. The trans is like $500, its a must. I have a 03 Matrix XRS with "fresh" JDM swapped 2ZZ (from a Corolla Run-X) and the 6 speed is so great. Close-ratio 1-5 with a super overdrive 6th gear, I love rowing through this gearbox!
Now that I am driving the MR2 I have to agree that the 6 speed is a must for all the reasons you mention.
Where are you finding a C60 transmission for $500? Cheapest I've found in working condition is $800-$900 with higher miles (90K+), and ones with lower miles (
You can use the C60 or C64 transmission which are both 6 speed
$8,000 for a swapped MR2 Spyder? That's a deal considering what that car will be. Excited to see more videos.
Fot those looking for the rundown on costs - skip to 10:11. Short summary: 2k for the car, 2.5k for engine and transmission, 3k other parts, so 7-8k without labor.
2K for the car? Haha good luck with that. This entire conversion would be so expensive that it may be a better idea to just Turbo charge the 1ZZ
yea they go for minimum 10k cdn now …
Please make this a step by step install "help" guide. I plan to do this myself soon in the future.
your gonna pay him for that?
Google it it can be found online. Look for midshiprunabout.org ;)
@@postmortemarg haha exactly
No one is ever going to hold your hand buddy, that's just the way it is
I just did this swap, very happy got alot of parts from Monkeywrench
Excellent video. I Like the time you take explaining everything. Not rushed.
Thanks. It really was a great project that has become a daily driven really fun car.
i love that our little mr2 spyder, pretty rare to see nowadays, still has great support like this. the forums have been a great help; haven't taken the 2zz plunge yet but it looks fun
It is a rare car and was a reason I was attracted to it. The 2zz is a project but it is worth it.
Thanks for taking the time to make this! Just picked up my mr2, gunna take my time but hoepfully therell be some 2zz's stil floating around when Im ready for the swap
love all your videos! thanks!
I highly recommend the Apexi Power FC stand alone when you're in the market for a computer upgrade. I also went with PPE Engineering headers. And don't forget to swap the throttle position wires.
The Power FC will be when I am ready to take it to the next level. I am sure it will be here before I know it.
Thanks for putting this vid together. Very helpful in figuring what to do and how much it’s going to cost. Hope you’re happy w the conversion!
Will Worrell - Super Happy. I have a daily driver with everything working like it came from the factory and the performance is terrific. So much fun to drive.
Awesome!!!Toyota made a misstep not equipping the car w the 2zz to begin with. As a new car option it probably would have been maybe $1500. And 15 years after production, it would be a lot cheaper and easier to swap out a rebuilt 2zz engine now.
@@wddub9075 If this car was built with the 2zz and 6 speed with a nice tune it would have been so much more popular. It really is the way it should have been.
This was Very helpful. Thanks for making this video!
Love It! Lots to learn!!
Great info!!. This seems like a fun project.
Fun project and really great car when it is done.
Nice. I want to do this swap on my mr2 one day! Subscribed!
good job man!thats how u do it stack ya stuff up then build a beast by hand i did the same to my ae 86!
Good breakdown. All things considered, this will be worth the $$$$s. Enjoy
I know this old but i just picked up a Mrs.2 with a little knock. Great info, thanks
Glad these are a help. That is why I did them. It is a very fun car so enjoy.
@@StarkReality Fun for sure. This is my fifth one. Three first gens, one second gen and now the third gen.
I always wanted to do this but got a s2 Exige S and stop pondering the thought. Maybe someday to relieve miles of the Exige.
Great videos! I’m getting close to swapping the engine myself and your videos are helpful to get some knowledge. Also trying to keep everything CARB legal which is a huge pain. Guessing you aren’t in CA since you got non-CARB header, intake, etc?
So glad the videos are a help. I am in VA so I don't have to deal with those ridiculous CA laws. Glad I moved out of there.
I think a turbo 1zz would be a better install. You would get the more power at much lower rpm
You are correct. 1ZZ and 2ZZ may displace the same, but the 1ZZ has a longer stroke, aiding the low end and it's better for turbocharging as there's better low down performance before the bolt on turbo is spooled
But then you have turbo problems.. Lag, heat, weight, cost, boost coming on mid corner etc. Most people building these cars want a track car where all of the above problems really get in the way of your goals.
@@izzy031096 lol all that would be a problem if you where going for some riddiculous 400HP build, but a modest 220HP would be doable and easy to manage. That's what tuning and common sense driving skills are for.
@@Zeriel00 But a laggy 220hp is relatively equivalent to a responsive 190hp… So what do you really gain?
debating on this myself.. turbo or just a beefed up NA 1zz
very good videos helped me with my swap... good lifter bolt video mine broke off when I removed it... Also Where does the vacuum line from the back of the 2ZZ... Thanks keep the videos coming
Glad the videos are a help. It is a great project.
7500 to 8k not bad.mines around that with a 1zz
I’ve lived in Japan and there is no tax on “high mileage” cars
A bit late but would you reccomend getting the rebuilt engine from monkey wrench racing for about $2000 before shipping or just find a jdm importer near me?
If JDM the 2zz makes 195 - 198 hp👍
I have not dyno tested the car but with the intake, exhaust and custom tune in the computer I would not be surprised if it was in that ballpark. She really goes when you get on it.
Gonna correct you on something here. In stock form a 1zz-fe is 140hp. A 2zz-ge is 180hp in lift. That is not a 50% increase at all. It's closer to a 30% increase. Now factor in the the fact that daily driving you will spend more time out of lift than in it. Outside of lift, a 2zz-ge produces around 140hp as well. However, outside of lift the 2zz-ge has less torque than a 1zz-fe.
Unless you keep it in lift you will not see any real performance increase. Now don't get me wrong, the 2zz-ge is a fun engine and a worthwhile upgrade to the MRs, just keep in mind how much it costs for it's performance. If you have a good 1zz-fe, going 2zz-ge isn't really worth it when you can just get a turbo kit from MWR for the same price as the swap and end up with more power lower down the rev range.
i think he meant 50hp...
truealchiemist .... the 2zz has higher RPM, stronger internals, easier to modify, etc. it’s overall better engine.. do you even own an MR-S or even have it swapped with a 2zz? If not then shut the fuck up, if you do then sell the car because you don’t know shit.
2zz can reach up to 400hp and the 1zz probably only 230hp before it can get fucked up or need forged internals.
Oi Jimmy!.. Everything he said is correct so maybe you should shut the fuk up!!! And stop flexin about the 2zz you nutter
Thank you so much for this video. Very informative. I would love to do this swap. Have you any details for contacts in Japan that sell and export JDM 2ZZ engines and transmission?
There are JDM engine importers in every city. Just do a search and you will find some near you on eBay.
$3000 for around 50% more hp is a good buy and you can take it to a dealer or any old shop for maintenance
I agree. It is a really fun drive now and has even more potential.
I achieved a 50% increase in power at the wheels in my s14 Silvia (200SX) SR20DET for $1600 AUD. Including parts, labour, dyno tune, exhaust and FMIC. please don't get me wrong, I have owned many Toyotas and Nissans and like both brands. I was just amazed at the easy power you can get from a SR20DET still running sensible boost.
@@timsmith854 You could do the same from the 1ZZ, I don't know why people insist on the 2ZZ because that costs a fortune and a bad mechanic could dismantle your car. A simple turbo kit would get you the power you need for much cheaper, although the 6 speed would be nice.
How much should I look to spend in labor if I bring all parts to a mechanic? I have a 2003 matrix xrs, 2000 mr2 and a 01 gts ecu
Also, is there a carb legal header? Or can I use the header from my 2zz?
Honest the C60 transmission is garbage (Coming from a 2zz celica owner) Ratio wise they are pretty good but they are just not strong. My 2nd gear started crunching now wont engage at all and my 4th gear has always had a crunch, Getting my transmision rebuilt soon. My mate with the 2zz corolla has the same 4th gear crunch and had a 2nd gear crunch when shifting at high rpms. If you go through the process of engine swapping to a 2zzge might as well open the gearbox and put some carbon syncros in there. only like $50 per gear and should only take a few hours to do if you already have the box on the floor.
The engine was removed from a 2001 celica 2zz and I want to put it in a 2001 celica 1zz
Two questions that anybody who knows can answer:
1. Is the 2zz head with the VVTC compatible with the 1zz bottom end? If so are the bottom end internals the same?
2. Can you re-sleeve a 2zz block or hone the cylinder sleeve walls?
I'm not an expert on this, but the bore and stroke on the 2zz is different than the 1zz, so I don't think you can bolt it on. Not to mention, of course, you have the VVTL in addition to the VVTi. I think it uses oil to do that and I'm not sure where it gets that from. You cannot hone the walls because the cylinders use some funky material, but I do think they can be sleeved and Monkey Wrench Racing uses a place called Darten (sp?). Hope this helps.
The engines are completely different. Almost zero shared parts. No you cannot home the cylinders in a 2zz but you can sleeve them I believe.
thank you so much for making this video!!! I have a question about the exhaust. Can you put the diaper back on with the new exhaust? cause I want to get the dual out, but the diaper won't fit. just wondering will the single fit ?
asice716 my car did not have the diaper when I got it. But looking at my exhaust I do not think it would go back on.
Exhaust is also big expense.
I am try to find a kit the "exhausts" on each side of the license plate.
Think it is possible...Would look so nice.....and cannot find reason why it is not offered. (would not be feasible on my MK2 that had storage space, but should be on the MK3)
Please comment as you know more than me at this point in build.
P
Monkeywrenchracing has a dual exhaust option. It is expensive. They have a header that connects to the 2zz but lets you use original parts after that so you can have more exhaust options as well. The one I chose is more expensive but is larger diameter for some more performance.
make ur own?
I am in the process of making my own exhuast for my mr2 2zzge swap. 2.5" all the way. And no, i am not professional
What do I need to do before hand?
I bought mine friday (sunday today) and looking at what kinds of modifications are required before the swap.
So... change all the fluids, full inspection, detail the interior and exterior, gut the pre-cats, add sway bars and support struts, brakes...
But other than that, what other handling requirements are needed before increasing the power?
The only handling mod I have done so far is an under brace. If you have a 2000 to 2002 you are going to need some other bracing under the front and back. Otherwise the car handles the new engine fine. I am going to do coil overs soon and do need a front strut bar. The back brace is pretty good as is. I will do sway bars if needed after the coil overs.
I plan on blowing like $1000 bucks in the first 6 months on stability. The rollover is real in that little thing, but yeah - it is a 2000 model.
Coil Overs or Koni's with lowering springs should be top priority. The car sits a little high on the stock suspension. There are a lot of thoughts on stiffening the car up on spyderchat so be sure to check it out.
"The engine cost more than the car " wtf i can find 2zz + trans for 2.5k, and mr2 spyder cost 10k here
I felt very lucky to find the deal on the MR2 that I did. You have to be on Craigslist every day to find them. There was a 2002 MR2 with a bad clutch for $2,300 just a few weeks ago here. It went went fast though.
I'm canadien from Québec, we have like 2 of them for sale XD
There are not many of these around so it might be tough. Can you import one?
i bought a 2001 here in germany for 2700 € ~ $3,060 with complete new tran and new shortblock 25k miles ago. Looking for 2zz swap now
why didn't u swap in a 3.5 V6 from a Camry?? isn't the torque/HP better?? I just looked it up it only weighs 170 pounds more than the 2ZZ
This was my first engine swap so I wanted to keep it as simple as possible. Plenty of parts and info available for the 2zz swap as well. I am very happy with the performance it has given.
StarkReality my motor is blown and I want an easy swap. If you don’t mind me asking what motor did you use and did it fit or did you have to custom anything to make it fit and what about the computer did you use the same one on mr2 or did u use a different one?
The easiest thing is to put in another 1zz. Next easiest is a 2zzge. There are also items for doing a Honda K series swap. Those are the easiest. If you want to know everything needed for the 2zz swap check out my other videos. I cover everything.
I totally "get it", why people would do this, and seems like a cool project. But why not just buy a C5 Vette and be done with it for $9k?
The cheapest C5 Corvette in my area is $13K most are $15K and up and you are still left with a front engine corvette. The Spyder is far cheaper just slightly higher power to weight ratio, mid-engine and super unique. Don't get me wrong, I like Vette's but they can be dime a dozen and most people don't even know what the MR2 Spyder is.
@@StarkReality Agree on the "uniqueness" standpoint. But there are several mint high mileage C5's around me right now for under $10k. In fact one just popped up with a clean 100k miles, for $9500, looks beautiful and has blacked out Z06 wheels along with some other mods I'm sure (It's got Texas plates). A MINTY FRESH 100k mileage 2001 Z06 just popped up yesterday for only $11.5k !!!!!!
@CoaCHSNiPeR They will both run forever and are both cheap to repair. It's a no brainer -- chevy LS series for the win. Especially when you factor in the LS gets the same MPG and has like 200 more hp LOL
How can you tell the difference from USDM to JDM 2zz?
Hi, is there a book or manual on this swap? Second question, is this a clean swap? I mean is it a liveable engine, usable for an everyday driver?
EMH - There is a lot of info out there but it is not consolidated which is one reason I decided to document my project. The 2zz is actually terrific as an every day. With a tuned computer it is a joy to drive.
Is the six speed a manual, or the semi automatic one that came with some of the original cars?
It is a manual.
Sid the 1zz hace catylitic converter problems? I have heard about it by anothee youtuber, but he had a 2001 model. I am looking to buy an MR-S that is a 2004 year model, and I am cautious on it. It has 57'000 miles, and if I decide to buy it, I am taking it to toyota to check the converter's condition, and maybe replace it.
It is the pre-cats that are the issue with these cars. Mine had 300,000 miles on the engine and it was shot. So I don't know if the pre-cats had been an issue. Getting it checked is a good idea. If they are still in the system you should be looking for oil burning.
@@StarkReality Is there A way that I can replace the pre-cats with something more reliable made by Toyota?
@@officialpennsyjoe You just take the pre-cat material out of the pipes. Other option is new headers.
@@StarkReality What would be the negative effect of taking the pre-cats out?
@@officialpennsyjoe The system is more free flowing, you don't get debris in your engine causing oil burning and the engine will last longer. I am not aware of it causing emission problems but that could be different in some States.
Nice project, if I had a Celica 1ZZ and I Wanted to swap to 2ZZ what's the stuff there I need?? ECU...and??
You would need a new header for the exhaust and ecu for sure. Not sure on engine mounts for the Celica. I am probably not thinking of something but it is a pretty straightforward swap.
@@StarkReality thanks, your the Man..
Good Projects in a near future👍
In Europe the 1zz makes 143hp standard!
Do the original driveshafts fit for the 6 speed box?
Hello, I have a question, I bought a 2zz engine, can I use the transmission of a 1zz?
Yes you can
This won't be far from a lotus Elise, shave off 150lbs and it'll be the same lbs/hp ratio.
Mo Mare You hit on the main reason why this car is a great project
Definitely need allot of chassis bracing. Elise is is so stiff, that its like its carved out of a single piece of aluminum
They added a lot of bracing starting in 2003 which helped a lot but more bracing is a popular upgrade and there are a lot of options. Once the car is running well I will see what it needs. So true about the Elise though.
I noticed that on the video that you broke down.....your header was a monkey wrench and in this video you show the PPE......any reason for this change ?
Adrian Otero No change I got the full PPE exhaust from Monkeywrench. It was one of the most expensive pieces of the project but it sure sounds good.
Have you had any problems with camshaft lift lobes getting worn?
Not that I know of yet. That takes a lot of miles.
I have another question. I don't have a computer. I can use a 1zz.
Nope. You need a 2zz computer.
Okey thank you for your help
Is that an old MZ125 I spot there in that garage? Had one of those haha
Good eyes but it is a 1969 Honda 50.
@@StarkReality ah yes now I see it from front on, very similar tank design!
How much hp can a 1zz make with upgraded valve springs and turbo make is it possible that it double the hp
Preston Buckley There are some benefits to a turbo 1zz. You can get more than 200 hp for sure. Just depends on preferences.
Just by changing the value springs and turbo it that’s great that you
Would you recommend getting the MWR swap kit since you spend around 6k on swap parts?
I got a number of parts from MWR. Most of my parts expense was the PPE exhaust and intake. You can do this for far less using more stock parts.
hmm okay.. I found a 2zz engine 6spd and ecu close to me for about 2.5..just figured with all the extras you need the price would be about the same since they claim you only need intake and exhaust to complete the swap with the MWR kit
You will have to add things up. Engine, transmission, swap harness puts you at $4K before shipping from MWR. You still need intake and exhaust. Certainly saves time and some trouble.
StarkReality okay ...still don't even have the car yet just googling right now I see one in my area for 4K "blows smoke needs a rebuild " gonna try to talk the guy down but says 4K firm lol
Sounds like a good candidate. There are so few of these cars it can be hard to find a good deal. Good luck.
And also is there a flex fuel sensor for that engine or is there a way to wire it in
No flex fuel on this motor and I have no idea about adding one.
Oh I love to run that corn
Is it possible to do this conversion with the stock 2zz harness ?
Nope. You need to use the original 1zz harness. The 2zz was never put in the back of a car so the harness is laid out all wrong.
1zz and 2zz have same pistons?
Not sure. They have different compression so they could be different.
How do you convert fwd to rwd? Knowing the celica motor is fwd!
For the engine itself you do not have to do anything other than use the original wiring harness. To use the 6 speed trans you do have to modify it to work in the rear. I cover everything in other videos.
Do you mind sharing which importer you used for the motor?
Japanese Engine Import - Manassas VA.
StarkReality thanks! Looking to pick up my own 2zz soon
1zz is nearer 140hp
What possible swap can be done to the MR 2 besides that 2zz?
You could also do a 1zz with a turbo, very nice. Honda K series engines are popular swaps as well as the Camry V6.
Audi ABZ 4.2 v8 with an A5 OB1 6 speed transmission.
Is this all the parts you need to do the swap?
More or less, yes. You can get away without buying some of these items and adapting what you have and you will end up needing plenty of maintenance items but this is everything I used.
It's been 2 years. How is it running? Reliable?
The MR2 has been super reliable and a daily driver for me and my wife. No issues and I still love to hit 5,500 rpm's and hear that exhaust.
@@StarkReality thanks for the vid! Nice job. I've always had an interest in Spyders but I am put off by the reliability of 1zz engines (precat incidents). Did you have issues with the 1zz before the swap?
@@ioannislampros2786 I bought this MR2 with 300,000 miles on the original engine. It was shot but I planned to do the swap anyways so it is what I wanted. I never really drove it with a 1zz but it clearly did alright with 300K on the odometer.
do you recommend rebuilding the motor before putting it in the car?
You certainly could but you will have to make that call based on the engine you get. I ended up doing more work on it than I planned but that was because of my own mistakes.
is the transmission out of a celica also
The 6 speed transmission came with the engine from a Celica GTS in Japan.
thanks
@@StarkReality I HAVE SOURCED A JDM 2zz with a 6 spd for 21 hundred bucks....have heard that all Japanese 2zz have the 6000rpm-8250 rev limit.....so that would be one less thing to purchase.....
It is worth it ????
I think the car is terrific with the 2zz. Really should have been offered originally. Once I got everything sorted it was very reliable.
@@StarkReality I have 1ZZ's Celica but....later , maybe I will be able to buy a GT86, I don't know...it is too expensive..
the 2zz swap is overrated and the engine isn't that reliable, that's why they stopped putting them in the celica, though i love the craftsmanship and the spirit, people should really look into going with the 2ar-fe swap. N/A 205whp and the engine is bulletproof.
For me it was the simplicity of the swap combined with the performance improvement. My first swap so I liked the idea it was straightforward and there was a lot of info out there. I am very happy with it.
@@StarkReality im not trying to hate on your build this was mainly food for thought for those looking into the 2zz swap
i HAVE A 2000 IT HAS 71345 MILES ON IT
That is super low. I just ticked over 300,000 officially. So you have a lot of life left in it.
Do you think a shop would be able to do this for me?
Absolutely. I have read of shops that even specialize in this swap and do them really fast. Check on spyderchat.com
How much for a Toyota 2gr v6 engine swap?
Good question. A lot more things to work through so hard to say.
You forgot to mention that the 1zz-fe engine is ok until 200,000km - afterwards its a complete trash engine with heaps of major problems. oil leaks, eating shit loads of oil, valves leaks, pistion ring sticks etc
My factory original 1ZZ MR2 Spyder with 411,000km begs to differ. No leaks, no need to add any oil, good compression, no strange noises. I commend the original owner for the headstart. A properly maintained 1ZZ can go the distance with no issues.
You are one of the lucky people. Not sure what yr model u got. But I have a 2000 model. And it's starting to break down. Going to do a 2zzge conversion
Mine is an early 2002. The previous owner got rid of the precats very early on. It has been on synthetic oil since 50K and was meticulously maintained. I do have a spare 2ZZ laying around from my Celica with a lot of upgrades but the only reason I might do the swap eventually is for more power. I'd like to make it to 500,000km on the 1ZZ first. Probably one of the highest mileage MR2 Spyders out there.
Im at 190k and its not showing any signs of wear.
But its an 04 and i realised this comment is a year old
If you're going 2 zz then you are stupid not to go for lotus setup as your not gaining to much
So in other words buy an s2000
Except a 2003 S2000 costs more than $20K still and after the swap they have the same power to weight ratio.
StarkReality I got my 2001 for 8,200 and a clean title
Sounds like you did well. I bet it is a fun car.
StarkReality yeah it is. Better car then the spider I think except I really envy how you're 700lbs lighter! Like seriously it makes me consider trading my s2000.
At 2,190 lbs from the factory it is a very light car. It is quite easy to drop a few more pounds and get down to 2,000. Makes for a fun little scooter.
You're wasting my time you're boring me to death I just wanted to get a price
The cost obviously is dependent on what you choose to do. I went with some more expensive options but now have about 10k in it and it is awesome.