1996 Celica GT-S Engine Replacement Options (Camry?) Options

[chris14020]

As the title states, I'm looking for engine replacement options. I imported a 1996 Toyota Celica with a blown engine. The engine is DEFINITELY blown, there was no oil when I got it and it's locked right up. What are my options for swaps? I want to stick stock, and swap as easily as possible. I'd prefer just a 'pull the whole thing, drop in the whole thing' 1:1 swap if possible -- I know when I swapped my 1996 ST engine with a 1995 ST engine it was the absolute worst project - so damn many different things. I have a 1992 Celica GT that also has the 5S-FE in it; body's pretty rotten so it has to go soon anyhow, but good engine. Would that swap over okay, or would emissions make it a huge pain in the balls? I was also wondering if a Toyota Camry's engine would be a good option for a swap. Anyone done this yet, that might have some insight? Thanks!

[slavie]

It would be easiest to strip the manifolds and wiring harness, and replace just the long block, if you want it to work right. If you want it to be exactly like the one in celica, need to strip all the way down to long block.

Exhaust manifold is different.
Intake manifold may be different, depending on year.
As mentioned, Camry has balance shafts, so the oil pan is different. You can remove the bal shafts to save weight (it's a heavy piece of scrap) and increase oil pressure slightly.
Celica has oil cooler. Some earlier Camry do as well, but 97+ do not.
Wiring is of course different.
Valve cover is different vs newer camry's at least. Throttle body, too.

If you leave Camry TPS, IACV, and other sensors, it may or may not work. Some sensors are interchangeable, some may be not. Depends on how much work you put up front vs how much you want to risk having to chase tails later.

I'd just strip it to long block, which are identical, and rebuild with all Celica parts. Guaranteed no issues now or later (with replacement parts and having to remember which part is from which vehicle).