Hello everyone!
Recently Charles, my 2005 LGTW 5-speed, puked up a rod at 190k. It wasn't unexpected by any means, and I had been planning to do an engine swap for a long time previous to the engine failure. However, I'm operating on a college budget. I wanted to compile a list of options that I've been looking into, and I am hoping you all can help me sorting out the details.
EZ30R Swap
My favorite idea would be to plop an EZ motor into Charles, and I would perfer and EZ30R or EZ36R due to their electronic throttle bodies. Ideally, I would use a stock EZ30R ECU and run the engine unmodified (for now). I know the engine will bolt in and everything, however I'm not a wiring genius and am worried about what rewiring might have to be done.
STI Ej255 Swap
If I could find one, I would like to swap in a USDM ej255 redtop motor because it would be relativley easy to do. I don't have too much information on a swap like this, though I know a motor on its own costs $3000-4000.
Rebuild the motor
Alternativley, I could just rebuild the motor. buying a shortblock off of ebay for around $2000, I wouldn't have to worry about wiring or any conversion issues. I would have to get a new turbo however, as the current one is on its way out.
Conclusion
These are just a couple of ideas of mine, and if anyone else has another idea I would love to hear it!