FigurativeGarbage

I ordered upper/lower manifolds and an oil pan tonight. What do I do for ECU programing if I don't have a VIN? I'm looking at sellers like this: 1994 1995 Camaro 3.4L Auto. 16184737 Engine computer Programmed to your VIN ECM | eBay

Thanks, JeepcoMJ. Agree gogmorgo. I don't want to mess with the carb in bad weather. I'm a novice, but I assume replacing the MAP, ECU, etc. all from the Camaro. Right now, my list includes: oil pan wiring harness fuel system (looking into the MPFI parts) exhaust manifold flywheel (I may just machine the existing flywheel). I know I need to get more, but only so much sticks in my mind if I note something.

I'm doing the '86 2.5L swap to a 3.4L from a '94 Camaro. For background and pictures, I've linked my VIN thread. To summarize, I bought this truck over the summer for mild fun and home projects. The idle was getting rough until it stopped working five weeks ago. I approached a neighbor who is pretty good with cars and we found rainwater in the tank (such that it wouldn't even light when poured in the street). He's been toying with the TBI and thinks the problem might be the ECU. I'm sure an injector cleaning wouldn't hurt. I explained why 3.5Ls are a standard option over a 4L and....he happened to have a 3.5L mid-90s Camaro engine in his work area. He's willing to do the swap and says we should ditch the TBI for a simpler carb system. Should we do a TBI or carb? And which parts should I look for? I have read a few threads on this swap and I'll have to review them again to get my shopping list for wire harness, oil pan, etc. I have also read some threads on this subject, but not for this specific swap (correct me if I'm wrong). After this, there's plenty of things to do. Neighbor said he's also willing to fix the ugly wiring. I'd look into taking out the busted AC, fixing the stereo, installing dome lights, fix the doors, maybe redo the aftermarket fan.

Will do. Thanks, man!

Update: idle was getting pretty rough and eventually the truck stopped starting about a month ago. My mechanically inclined neighbor is helping and we found the fuel was contaminated with rainwater (assumed). What he pulled from the tank wouldn't light on fire. He's been tinkering with the TBI. He suspects that the ECM might be fried. I am fine ordering a new one to try it, but he suggested something I'm not sure about: replacing the TBI with a carburetor. Take out the sensors and simplify things a bit. Based on what I've read so far, I don't think I'll go that route. I haven't found much info on a TBI upgrade. On a better note, he happens to have a 3.4L '94 camero engine. We will also work on some sloppy wiring, adjust the squealing timing belt and take out the random aftermarket fan and replace it with a clutch fan. I'll post a photo from under the hood tomorrow.

Fantastic information, even if more difficult than I hoped. Thanks, Pete.

Is there an easy solution beyond replacing the trans?

As requested, a photo of the truck from a distance. Only had one with my butt obscuring it.

1986 Jeep Comanche. 2.5L/ 4 Speed Manual/ 4x4 / Front axle / Rear axle / Wheelbase Belfair, Washington Gf got an electric vehicle, sold my 2017 Outback and bought this for my various house projects and hauling kayaks, etc. Figure I'll make some upgrades when I have the time and money. Like anyone else with an '86, I'm interested in swapping the 2.4L for a 3.5L from a Camaro. Doesn't need to dominate boulders or go to shows, but I could be a little more fun. Previous owner had some mechanical knowledge. He used this to haul his motorcycle. It had a custom-made ramp bolted in. I removed it. He installed a fan, but the wiring needs to be redone (close to belts, dangerous). I paid a mechanic for some differential work and install a new bolt for the passenger seatbelt (missing when bought). I believe he replaced the exhaust and replaced much of the interior from a Chevy....Silverado? Missing speakers, nonfunctioning stereo, missing dome lights. Not going to lie, I don't have experience working on cars, but that's why I'm here. I'm fine hiring a mechanic for things I don't have time, money, or confidence in, but it's fun learning new things.