Best S13 to get

[tinyMan]

Hello,
I have searched the forums, but I couldn't drag anything up (probably because I don't even know what I am looking for). I am in the intial stages of starting a new project. I want to build an RB26 powered S13. Now I am looking for the perfect car to perform the swap on.

My question is, are there better S13s models to start with than others? For example, any of the models ship with large brakes, good suspention, LSD rear end? I am looking right now for a med-low milage good condition S13, any specific issues I should check out on the cars to make sure they would be a good candidate for the swap?

Thanks!

[nightwalker]

look for the ones that say "super Hicas" on the side, only fastback models. They're sturdier cause they have more suspension stuff, which makes them heavier, but is better matched for the RB26. The Skyline also came with Super Hicas, so it's easier to match and do the electronics. You won't have AWD, but you will still have the Super Hicas function. It's a rare model, on fastbacks, no coupes.


see that little weird sticker in the side? it actually says SUPER HICAS, you can't read it in the pic, but at least you know what to look for.

[Yoshi]

seriously, if you searched, you didn't try real hard :/

All s13s are at least 11 years old. They're going to have issues. You want to do a RB26 swap (um... have fun with that), What you're looking for is a LE or SE trim level, it really doesn't matter truthfully, an RB26 will require replacing a ton of stuff anyhow....

if you don't know anything about 240s in general, how do you plan to do something as complicated as swapping an RB26 (widely known to be the hardest skyline->s-chassis swap)?

[tinyMan]

I just completed a swap of a e36 BMW M3 motor (also inline 6) into a 1990 e30 M3 (small car that shipped with inline 4), which took about 4 months to get ironed out. No turbos involved in that one, but I did use entirely factory parts which made it a challenge.

I am pretty confident that given a good front clip I can move the harness (even make a new one if I have too) and get everything else out that I need. I am really drawn to the project because the initial outlay is likely to be less than $10k. I *know* that it is going to be hard, but this is going to be a second car so it is okay if it takes me 6 months to get the bugs worked out.

Thanks for the input.

[Yoshi]

wow, another Beemer guy going from M3's to 240's???
what's the world coming to?

keep lots of records/pics and post as you go, everyone here will be impressed i'm sure! best of luck man.

(btw, why s13 over s14?)

[tinyMan]

I am thinking of the S13 only because I heard that the RB26DETT goes more easily into the S13 than an S14. My final goal is the own a very fast car, I don't really care so much about what it looks like. Also, the S13s are a bit cheaper.

I will be sure to post a new thread once the work commences. I am off to go find my cherry, bone stock LE or SE. Thanks!

[Salty_X]

I think the S14 engine bay is larger, and therefore would be more accomodating for a RB swap.

[PSI240SX]

I will have a running Super Hicas S13 for sale shortly.... email if interested. [email protected]