I was reading some article where the engine in the 98 model of the SC400 was rated at 290hp where as the 92-97 were somewhere between 250-260hp. Is this true and if so what was the cause for such a jump in hp? Also, if i found a 98 engine would it be worth it (if i got a good deal on it of course) to swap it out with the 92-97?

Tom

 

It's the same engine. 1UZ-FE
They just introduced Variable Valve Timing ignition (VVTi)... i think that's what it is supposed to mean.
Basically it's just an upgraded computer system as far as I know.
Besides... that's just crank hp, not at the wheels.
Do the BFI, get a better exhaust, some headers, and a few other pieces here and there and you won't really notice that much of a diff I bet.

 

The "i" in VVTi actually stands for intelligence...

 

So if i just switched the computers then it would make the hp jump by 30-40? If so i think it would be well worth the money cause im sure it would only be a couple hundred bucks. What ya think?

Tom

 

Uhhh.... I don't think so. If this was the case, I'm sure everyone would have done this already
Theres more involved than that

 

From intellexual.net.faq: "In 1998, both the SC300 and SC400 received VVT-i (intelligent variable valve timing) engine technology. These motors have completely redesigned heads, which boast variable valve timing on their intake camshafts via an oil-driven helical gear-drive. 1998 and newer Lexus models with 4.0L V-8s are capable of low to high 14-second quarter miles."

 

So back to my original question, should i swap my engine for a 98+ and supercharge it? or should i stick with the 92 and supercharge it?

Tom

 

If you wanted the extra hp the 98+ gives you, you'd be better off selling you pre-98 and spending the money from the engine cost and swap on the actual 98+ car.
As far as supercharging goes, do a search and you'll see its more a dream than a reality at this point.

If you want power, do urself a favor and get an sc300 and turbo it

 

Acutally i have found a company in austrialia that has already made a supercharger for the sc400 it cost like 4k plus 300 to ship which honestly isn't that bad.

 

i would imagine you are talking about EFI... the major components will fit (the manifold, charger) but you would pretty much have to remove your entire EGR system. Also if you look at their pictures, they provide no room for the TRAC system. Nobody knows what else has to be changed or modified to make it fit. since they are unwilling to provide what they actually give you(parts list). They also did tell me that they didn't know what had to be modified to make it fit.
Also no engine management system, but does come with fuel management system (FPR)

the price is $6000 AUD and $500 AUD to ship (from EFI)

 

How many people have supercharged the early 1UZFE in the states? How does the factory ECU respond to boost? Isn't Lextreme offering a centrifugal kit? A Roots or screw type would be ideal, but a centrifugal unit makes things a lot easier. I've personally been eyeing used PowerDyne units. I don't see any reason why this should be considered a dream, just don't expect to be able to bolt on a complete 'over-the-counter' kit.

 

Not sure about the 1uz, but in the 2jz the vvti motors are actually considerably weaker. My understanding is this happened on the 1uz also, but I am honestly not positive, so I would stick with the older motor if that is the case.

-Ethan