V6 Swap ECU & Trans Question, Manual ECU Options

[sandusky1977]

So,. I'm looking at the stuff I want to pickup for a V6 swap, and of course have a couple of questions.

1) If I pickup an automatic Solara $750 that is totaled as the V6 donor, I can ground out a pin on the ECU to run it as a manual correct? and this would get me a lot of parts and pieces I would have to hunt and peck for also?

2) Or,. I've found a 1mz out of 96 Camry with harness for $300, but I would have to locate a 96 era manual ECU to avoid CEL problems?

Otherwise it seems like using a 1mz out of a 01 Solara will have the same basic parts list as the 1mz out of a 96 Camry right?

3) I'm currently running 225/40 zr 18" wheels and tires on my project car, much better highway rpms, and I'm wondering if the stock GT transmission is a real option, or if I should just suck it up and find a Solara transmission too.

This post has been edited by sandusky1977: Mar 27, 2014 - 12:29 PM

[Smaay]

im going to be doing 97celica's swap.

sandusky, like we talked about, get the 3MZ engine, a 97-2002 1MZ intake manifold. you can get the VVT 1MZ manifold with the dual throttle bodies but it has no provisions for an EGR. you might be able to fool the ECU with some resistors in the plugs.

you dont want to use 98+ ecu or harness, the plugs are different and the newer is looking for a more complicated EVAP system.

what I have now,
3MZ from a 2005 Sienna
97 Camry ECU and harness
im using a 2002 Solara 5 speed transmission.
Southbend TZ clutch with Fidanza flywheel.
im using 2002 MT Solara headers. they are shaped differently and there is no CAT built in them. they clear the shift cables easier.


If you have a GT, then you need an ST throttle cable.
I drilled and tapped the fuel rails to accept -6 AN fittings and converted to a return fuel system. My regulator is static which resembles the 97 Camry non return system.

This post has been edited by Smaay: Apr 2, 2014 - 11:46 PM