1997 Chevy Cavalier Used engine compatablility 1998 to 1997

Avatar
DANAUTHIER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 156 POSTS
Engine Mechanical problem
1997 Chevy Cavalier 4 cyl Front Wheel Drive Manual

I have a 1997 Chevy Cavalier in the shop with a blown engine. I have a low mileage engine from a 1998 Cavalier readily available at a great price, but according to the exchange guide the 98 engine will not work in the 97 vehicle (guide states that the only years that will work in the 97 Cavalier are 96 & 97)

Unfortunately the guide does not give a reason for the incompatability. Visually the enignes appear the same and the sensors that attach to the head and the block are the same part numbers. I am wondering if anyone knows what the compatability issue is and if anyone has attempted an engine swap with the same years make and models...

Thank you,
Dan
Oct 7, 2010 at 5:47 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
BLUELIGHTNIN6
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 16,542 POSTS
2.2L or 2.4L
Oct 7, 2010 at 9:47 AM
Avatar
DANAUTHIER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 156 POSTS
2.2L... I had planned to put that information in the subject and obviously forgot..

Thank you

Dan
Oct 7, 2010 at 2:20 PM
Avatar
BLUELIGHTNIN6
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 16,542 POSTS
unfortunately that is correct, only the 96 and 97 cavalier 2.2L are interchangeable.
Oct 8, 2010 at 8:42 AM
Add a reply
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.

Frequently Asked Problems for This Vehicle