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View Full Version : CA18DET swap into S13


Brut
04-06-2008, 09:50 PM
I have a S13 with a blown engine and I've been thinking about going and buying a CA and drop it in. I've been searching around the interweb looking for a DIY guide but I haven't been successful on finding a completed one. I find ones that explain removing the stock engine but none with then engine being installed. Also I've read that the install is easier than installing a Sr20. Is that true? What things would I need to do the swap? I know 2 members on here that have owned a CA and I guess I'll message them for advice. Also anyone know how much a shop would charge possibly to do the swap or if anyone knows someone that could do this out of there garage or what they may have? Please no one post up saying go SR20 or RB20 because I've chosen to go with the CA.
Revmaynard
04-06-2008, 10:00 PM
Not a pro by any means, but the CA is definitely an easier swap and a great candidate for the S13 chassis.
Jecht
04-06-2008, 10:11 PM
Well the 180sx originally came with the CA so it can't be much more difficult than the SR20.
bigdare23
04-06-2008, 10:13 PM
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20071217210008AAhsCpw

seems like a bolt on swap.
Brut
04-06-2008, 10:26 PM
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20071217210008AAhsCpw

seems like a bolt on swap.

Yeah thats what I think too but I'm I could be wrong.


Well the 180sx originally came with the CA so it can't be much more difficult than the SR20.

Yeah thats why I think it should bolt right in. Aside from the wiring harness and the ECU
SampaGuy
04-06-2008, 11:26 PM
I have one in mine, i didnt swap it myself but i know u can use the same procedures u find online for an sr20 swap. If u have a 91+ u are going to have to get the powersteering lines from a 89-90. If u have a 89-90 u will have to get a 91+ tachometer (if not the ca18 tach).
Brut
04-06-2008, 11:27 PM
Ok i checked club Nico and they said that its basically the exact same a swapping a Sr20 even down to the wiring. But you can use the same radiator and all etc...
Kaiser
04-07-2008, 07:17 PM
Ok i checked club Nico and they said that its basically the exact same a swapping a Sr20 even down to the wiring. But you can use the same radiator and all etc...

If you have a hatchback, swap that CA in there. It's easy, since the KA is shoehorned in it's place for that chassis. If you have the notchback/coupe, get an SR20 :-p
SampaGuy
04-07-2008, 07:20 PM
If you have a hatchback, swap that CA in there. It's easy, since the KA is shoehorned in it's place for that chassis. If you have the notchback/coupe, get an SR20 :-p


the engine bays are exactly the same...
Kaiser
04-07-2008, 09:18 PM
Sorry. I guess my attempt at sarcasm was missed. Of course the engine bays are the same. All three engines are almost identical when it comes to installation and mounting. Installation of the CA18, sans wiring and piping, will be the reverse of removal of the KA24 currently installed. Personally, if I had a S-chassis with a dead engine I'd be looking for something besides a CA to swap in.