So I am working on restoring a 1993 Del sol si. Need to replace rad support assy.

have a chance to buy a 1997 si rolling chassis. Will the D16z6 simply swap into the 1997 shell rather than removing/replacing the core support? Any potential problems?

Jim

 

Sorry, its a 1997 del sol si shell

 

Fixed

 

Never mind....The airbag system has been removed along with camber brakes and suspension!

 

Okay guys( and gals)

I bought a 1993 del sol si to restore for my daughter. D16z6 engine, runs well but not well maintained. Front end crash so need hood/fenders/bumper w cover and radiator support assembly.

Then I bought a 1997 rolling shell for less than parts would have cost. Beautiful exterior/interior stripped out. (airbags, radio, windows)

My question is: Better to swap engine into 1997 and have to switch all the parts over or use the old body and have to do the Rad core switch (which I admit makes me nervous)

Which way would you go?

 

Swap all into good shell.

 

Reasons? Just looking for as much experienced info as I can get.
Thanks

 

Are the cars automatic or stick shift? Is your daughter willing to drive stick shift? Changing engines and stuff on an automatic car is more complicated, but it's still usually something do-able, although usually not worth doing.

Does your state preform motor vehicle inspections using the OBD2 equipment in the '97?

The reason for using the actual car that isn't damaged is because the vehicle is going to be more true. Even if you can only see radiator support damage, it's entirely possible that the frame of the vehicle is bent or tweaked. Even if it drives straight, it may be damaged. Frame repairs are costly, usually starting at $500 if not thousands of dollars. Usually, an out of spec frame causes tire wear issues, alignment issues, handling problems, it's sort of a safety concern.