The 4.2l i6 is such an underrated motor. Everyone looks for the V8 and everything. Nobody on here is doing anything with the 4200. The Atlas motor has ALOT of potential. It just needs time an more eyes on it. There an amazing engine. Thank you for being one of a VERY few ppl pushing the limit of this motor
If I get my machine shop again (purchased one before the paradise fires and by the time I made space, the cops wouldn't let me up to clean out the warehouse where they were sitting) I'll be doing a lloott of work on these atlas motors. Hopefully I can get another 5 axis manual mill and cnc so I can prototype AND test internals. Goal it to start producing my own "ameri-barra" set that would include anything needed to get to 1000hp reliably or 1500 as a strip hero with meticulous maintenance. Kind of like J.P. racing did with the 1gz-fe v12 toyota and 1fz-fe 4.0 2j derivative.
Was about to go buy a vette to build a newer drift car. Cause already has an ls1. Now I wanna Frankenstein another pickup or wagon with one of these and between 4 and 500hp on 2 tunes. 1 for skidracin 1 for highway pulls
I'm sitting here having upgraded from a 2004 Envoy to a super clean and well optioned 2007 Trailblazer not knowing the potential of the 4200 at the time, but wanting to turbo it in the future just to find the amazing work you and others have already done. Nice
I agree I have the 04 version and it pulls very hard especially once you get to 3500 and above feels like a little boost kicks in but it’s just the vvt working.
Hi from Australia. Could you confirm the trigger teeth pattern for me? Is the 7 tooth 6 even teeth plus 1? and what is the 4 teeth on cam even on the 06-08? Thanks.
Hey guys. It's an honor. It's 6+1 on 02-07 engines. 08-09 had 58x identical to an LS. The cam is a weird 6 tooth pattern from 02-07. In 08-09 they went to 4x identical to an LS. The cam sprockets interchange across all the years.
I have a 93 t100 on 35’s, sr5. The 3.0 is severely lacking in aftermarket support. I was leaning towards a 1uz, or a 2jz, or even a 4.0 from a newer taco since they are making S/C for them. But now, I’m thinking of picking up a 4.2 for a quarter of the price, and boosting the hell out of it lol
@@rattyratstuff7125 That's a shoehorn! I'm back on my old bullshit, straight power train "swap" into an 80s hearse. It will be mine, oh yes, it will be mine
I'm glad I found your channel. I bought a 2004 TB with 65k miles in 2008. I still have it and it now has 178k miles. I'm picking it up today from the transmission shop. They rebuilt the tranny because the tc blew up. It's a great suv less the bad mpg. It has never fail an emission test.
I'd like to start by saying your accomplishments are speaking loud. Thanks for all the great information and all the videos, keep doing you and keep pushing these atlas motors to the moon!🎉
The engine coolant temp sensors are also in different locations. On 02-05 engines its in the block and on 06-later engines its in the head. So if you put a early head on a later block you won't have a place to put a temp sensor. I drilled and taped the upper coolant elbow to house one. Also coming from the repair side of the industry the biggest failure mode we see on these engines is broken valve springs/valve keepers not staying in place, causing bent valves in heads and misfires. This is on stock engines, I'm not sure why it happens but I've seen a trend of them failing this way. The only other failure I've seen is run out of oil causing rod knock.
Why would you put up an older head on a newer block? Maaan. You have to do the opposite. I own a 04 trailblazer with the P10. Got a complete 2008 engine. Im gonna swap the crank of 2004 to the 2008 engine and rewire a P12 PCM to get the best ever vortec. I confirm 2007 head works well on 2005 block.
I just scored a 04 atlas 4.2 with 106k miles for $300 bucks. Ran great in a rust bucket. My mint 03 envoy just hit 270k miles and finally started making the worn valve seat diesel sound.
Would be nice in a 5 series. I had a 530i with a Garrett GT40 and it was awesome until a guard rail bit me and caused frame damage. Just a slight dinger on the highway but it was enough.
First!!!! I've been sooooo waiting for this. Thank you veeeeeeeery much man! Posting this to all TB Groups. Thank you for responding to my request. Keep making this engines go BUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUURRRRRRR!!!!!!!
Nice piece of education Calvin. A lot of misconception out in the forums where people claim that using a 06 and later cylinder head on a 05 block is a way to increase HP. Clearly none of them actually tried what they claim otherwise they would have discovered the bolt pattern variation.
Great video on the differences between the years, could you do a video on the blocks themselves though? I'm pretty sure they're then same but no one talks about them
I'm able to purchase an '08 engine but I want to do the Schneider cam upgrade and I was wondering if I could take the valspel spring retainers from an earlier engine and put it on the '08 so I can run a Schneider cam?
So in a nut shell its pretty much like the ls engine world.. Use the later model pistons rods, and cylinder head on a earlier model block/crank.. because of ecu options(in this case a stronger crank) I guess there was no changes made to the block between years?
@@Calvin-Nelson Replaceable i meant. I read somewhere that they're replaceable, but that of course is the internet. The block does have sleeves correct? I live in San Diego and I'm close to Darton Sleeves. Currently working on an 04 Trailblazer LS. This video was really good to see the difference in heads. Are you using the stock head studs or aftermarket like ARP? And head gasket? I've been looking towards Cometic or whoever makes a multi layer steel. Eventual goal is a remote mount twin turbo setup at the rear axle. I have two genuine Garrett GT3076r's that came off my 05 Audi Allroad project.
@@ProjectCarTV I'm sure that you could sleeve a block. Not really worth it in my opinion. The stock blocks will take some abuse from what I've read and experienced. All the stuff we've done is with the stock engine. Not even opened up. They come factory with MLS head gaskets.
@@Calvin-Nelson Thanks a lot! I'll have to do some sleeving no doubt though. I ordered a 4l60e from Monster Transmission that's good for 1000+. I saw the stock rods in your video and although they're pretty beefy I think I'll go with Pauter. I'm lucky to be where I'm at in San Diego, so many good companies in this city. Crower, Pauter, Carillo, Darton. Not to mention machine shops. I have a spare block that I'm going to be taking for machining soon. Using two 3076's automatically puts me well above 500hp. I may use a stock block for testing. I have a lot of work ahead. Still have to find a daily driver to take the Trailblazer off the road. One that I won't be tempted to f**k with. I can't even buy a used Hyundai Elantra because the 2.0L engines are shared with Mitsubishi and I'll be tempted once again lol. Thanks a lot. I've been following your channel but never commented.
My mom has a old 2003 trailblazer with a 4200. 120,000 miles, beat up a little but in decent condition. Transmission is like 20,000 miles cause it died at 100,000 (I don't know why, mom had to get it replaced). Going to dust it off, has been outside sitting for the past year, get it inspected and add maybe the ss body kit to it and some bigger tires, and do e85 swap with some boost and it will be prime.
So,I want a 2002 crank,06 up head,06 to 08 ecu,06 up rods and pistons. Also wondering if a 06 up intake cam would improve performance on a pre 06 engine.
You do not want a 2002 crank. They are unique. You want a 2003-2005 crank. I'm actually in the process of seeing if an 06+ cam will improve my 04 engine.
EPIC video! Thanks for the wealth of information!!! How's the height compare to a LS with a truck manifold? Any forged piston or rods out there? ARP head, main, or rod bolts? I'm just starting to research this. I was going to do a LS and a remote mount turbo on my Astro van but this looks like an interesting option. Thanks for helping out Holdener. I'm interested to see his upcoming tests too.
Did any of them get a forged crank? In some of the 3500v6 (non vvt) GM put a forged crank in them, and others got a cast, but they all got the PM rods.
So friend has an 07 2x2 with bad engine / rod knock till it warms up after short time drive comes back. He got a deal on an 04 4x4 thats clean. Seems the crank and cam teeth count are the same. Only issue maybe the vvt on the cam as they changed 06/up ? If that isn't an issue should work fine since change rails or what minor things over. Don't thing oil pan isissue. Yard was saying they should interchange according to Hollander. Thanks
@@Calvin-Nelson so if the later rods and piston fit on the 12 counterweight crank would the rotating assembly be unbalanced or does it not matter? Also Thanks for all the great information you share. It’s awesome
Can you go more in depth on using the stock ecu for boost? Also I want very badly to use this motor for my next drift car build. I know you’re a drag guy but if you (or any one else) had any input on how a 4200 might perform in a drift car, I’d love to hear it. I’ve also been binging all of your 4200 videos, great information and awesome builds!
Doing a drift build is totally doable. As with any drift car, the key is oil control. There is a guy in Sweden that has a really sick Volvo Drift car with a 4200. Check this out for more information. sites.google.com/view/vortec4200wiki/home
So, if I have a 2008 or later 4200 and want to throw on a turbo, I would have to get a p12 ecu and switch to an earlier crankshaft? Does the p12 work with the later 58 tooth reluctor wheel? I am trying to search online and everything that I see is for V8s and other engines.
I have an 07' 4200 that spun a rod bearing, and its too far gone for the crankshaft and rod cap to be machined! I found an 02' 4200 what do i need to do to make it work for my 07'? Can i use the 02' lower( block, crank,) and use the 07' head, oil pan, n timing gears, or will it not work that way?
Hi, I've got a quick question. I have an 05 trailblazer ls 4.2 but I think I've got an 06 engine. I recently had the exhaust manifold replaced. If the shop put on an 05 manifold instead of an 06, would it make a difference. I checked and they are 2 different part numbers. Thanks
Hello budy one question, i saw that you have a lot of experience how can install on these engine a t5 transmmission, is there an adapter for this transmission?? Any idea??
I have an 04 envoy with a rusted frame but, found a 06 envoy with bad trans, planning on swapping the whole thing, will I have to swap harness and ecu since theyre somewhat different?
Hey brother I have a 2005 trail blazer ls wit a 4200 I just got an 1986 caprice four door I was wondering can I swap out the engine from the trail blazer into the old school box Chevy caprice? Thank your answer would help me a lot brother 🙏🏽💙💯
When there is a will there is a way. Just have to get the tape measure out and see how hard it is going to be. Measure the length and height, available and make your decision. With a sawsall and a welded anything is possible.
I have a colorado and want to keep the 58x wheel so that way all my guauges will still work along with other body functions. Can a stand alone ecu be wired in some how to piggy back?
Yes. You'll have to send the signal from some sensors to both ECUs (crank sensor, cam sensor, TPS, etc), and add redundant sensors (map sensor, CLT sensor, IAT sensor, etc). Then you'll have to have the aftermarket ecu take over control of the coils and injectors. It's not ridiculously hard. Just get a good wiring diagram for the stock ecu and go one wire at a time.
Hey i have a 05 gmc envoy with the 4.2 its got a check engine light on the dash for code p0014 which is the advanced timing on cam b code i was just wondering do you know if i have to do timing belts or if there's just some cam sensor i have to replace
Definitely have to shim the lifters to essentially make then solid. Another hot ticket is to use Ecotech followers. They are stronger, and interchange. Not sure what to recommend on valve springs. I found a set of 2JZ valve springs that will work, I just don't know if it will work at 10,000 RPM. These engines have very bad harmonics at around 6,500 RPM. Guys that are taking them to 10,000 RPM run like 7,000 stall converters. Basically they just get through the bad harmonics as quickly as possible. I would probably be wise to put cams in it so that it will make power at that RPM. Billet cams are expensive, but you probably can get away with a regrind. In my opinion the stock cams are pretty decent and you can do a lot with them. Not sure if they'll support power at 10,000 rpm.
This may be a silly question but I ask because I don’t know. Would the earlier 4.2 crank fit in the later 4.2 block? Or could a later head be bolted onto an earlier block?
Can you help me please? I cant seem to get the timing right. I have an 07' engine and a new cloyes timing chain.. it says something about turning the actuator to the right before installing but from what i can tell its already all the way to the right. My marks all line up correctly but i have no compression when all said and done. Ive pulled this engine 3 times and dont know what im doing wrong.. can you give me any pointers. I thought i was a pretty decent mechanic but now im doubting myself. Ive even honed cylinders replaced rings and gapped them and lapped all the valves.. any help would really be appreciated
To double check the timing on the motor, at cylinder 1 TDC, the flats at the back of the cams should be level. Should be able to lay a straight edge across them. This may not be 100% perfect, because the exhaust cam may have some angle.
I've put an 06 engine into the 05 trailblazer and engine doesn't run, misfires as if out of time. Can I remap the ECM to accommodate the change? Been told it would never run. Any suggestions?
Should run fine. They have the same trigger type. I'd check to make sure the cams are timed correctly. Go though the basics. Check for bad coils, injectors, etc.
thanks for the info i have a 2007 gmc envoy with a bad motor but the replacement motor is out of an 2003!! im guessing i might run into some problems... do you know how much of a problem thats gonna be? i have both completed vehicles 2007 GMC envoy and 2003 Chevy Trailblazer for any donor parts i need
Only problem may be the VVT has different characteristics. The tune may be a little unhappy. Also the airflow of the engine may be a bit different, but it should be close-ish.
@@Calvin-Nelson thanks do you have any advice for what I can do about it bc from what I can tell after starting it this morning, you are exactly right! I started it ran surprisingly smooth until I shut it off and tried again
Possibly emissions or SAE rating requirements. Having driven and worked on all of them, the 08-09 engines are the smoothest, most power etc. in factory form.
So it's much like a LS, they all will GO, only you may want a aftermarket ecm, do the later model heads fit the early engin? Great video, I appreciate the knowledge!!
If what you are asking is do the LT heads fit on the LS, then yes the bolt holes line up. They changed the dowel locations, and again you have to come up with a solution for the valve order.
Great video and thanks for all the content. I plan on building one of these in the future for sure! Can you use the older crank in the newer blocks? If so, what is needed to change, upgrade or use to do it?
With these engines can you do a hot cam swap. Put 2 intake cams or exhaust cam’s depending on size. In the KA24de you can put 2 exhaust cams in and it keeps the motor breathing with larger lift at high rpm
Is my 05 4200 vortex worth the trouble of upgrading it and if so where should I start. Right now it's factory and any advice would help. I mostly trail ride no mudding and I don't race just need to get up those hills.
My usual tuner cannot flash '06-'07 computers. Any idea why? To add: These engines are very sensitive to oil change intervals and quality of oil. IIRC a full dressed engine is roughly 550lbs. About the same as an iron headed SBC. Theyre not light weights.
Every 4200 owner/builder is looking for this video. May it never get lost in the youtube algorithm.
i think i just fell more in love with cars cause of this inline beauty
The 4.2l i6 is such an underrated motor. Everyone looks for the V8 and everything. Nobody on here is doing anything with the 4200. The Atlas motor has ALOT of potential. It just needs time an more eyes on it. There an amazing engine. Thank you for being one of a VERY few ppl pushing the limit of this motor
If I get my machine shop again (purchased one before the paradise fires and by the time I made space, the cops wouldn't let me up to clean out the warehouse where they were sitting)
I'll be doing a lloott of work on these atlas motors. Hopefully I can get another 5 axis manual mill and cnc so I can prototype AND test internals. Goal it to start producing my own "ameri-barra" set that would include anything needed to get to 1000hp reliably or 1500 as a strip hero with meticulous maintenance. Kind of like J.P. racing did with the 1gz-fe v12 toyota and 1fz-fe 4.0 2j derivative.
Just towed 8500 lbs with my 04 rainier lol
I never understood why GM DC'd this engine. Such a fantastic and silky smooth powerhouse engine.
Thanks For shedding light on a good thing👀👍😎
And I been a longtime member of Inliners International
Thank you I think you are the only person who breaks down this motors the correct way. Thanks again
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thanks once again for doing something different than LS in the GM world. Really good stuff here for those wanting to head in this direction.
Was about to go buy a vette to build a newer drift car. Cause already has an ls1. Now I wanna Frankenstein another pickup or wagon with one of these and between 4 and 500hp on 2 tunes. 1 for skidracin 1 for highway pulls
I'm sitting here having upgraded from a 2004 Envoy to a super clean and well optioned 2007 Trailblazer not knowing the potential of the 4200 at the time, but wanting to turbo it in the future just to find the amazing work you and others have already done. Nice
I have an 06 Trailblazer with the 4200 and I love it. The best inline 6 I ever drove. Pulls very strong for its displacement.
I agree I have the 04 version and it pulls very hard especially once you get to 3500 and above feels like a little boost kicks in but it’s just the vvt working.
@@Thumper68 I’ve got an 02 with 440k on it and running strong it burns a little oil but what can you expect
Mopar Slant 6 from the 60s!!! Bullet proof, and zero electronics...
@@ucsasinkings8296holy shit man!
I need one of these ASAP... before they start getting expensive
You can find them at any junkyard/pull apart. I've seen quite a lot.
my local mechanics keep trying to get me to trash my TB even though the engine works fine. Makes me suspicious. haha
@@carnage50x why am I just now realizing you commented on this lol small world😂
@@Matt_Lanzer_13 it's been 84 years...
I've always liked this engine and knew it had potential. I wish gm put it in more vehicles as well as a stronger aftermarket Field.
Same
Thank you for all the info man we appreciate it 4200s they starting to be more and more appealing everytime you go faster with them
Hi from Australia. Could you confirm the trigger teeth pattern for me? Is the 7 tooth 6 even teeth plus 1? and what is the 4 teeth on cam even on the 06-08? Thanks.
Hey guys. It's an honor. It's 6+1 on 02-07 engines. 08-09 had 58x identical to an LS. The cam is a weird 6 tooth pattern from 02-07. In 08-09 they went to 4x identical to an LS. The cam sprockets interchange across all the years.
No sh**! Imagine having the SF lads hit you up!
A man who truly knows his craft. I'd wager you over the GM engineers on some of that info
Can you put the 06+ head on the 02-05 block?
Thumbs up even before vid started playing!!!!
I have a 93 t100 on 35’s, sr5. The 3.0 is severely lacking in aftermarket support. I was leaning towards a 1uz, or a 2jz, or even a 4.0 from a newer taco since they are making S/C for them. But now, I’m thinking of picking up a 4.2 for a quarter of the price, and boosting the hell out of it lol
Dude, so obvious you want the refresh model! Great breakdown, excellent detail, got the 4200 in my mind for a project. Def an '06 to start 😎
Have an sr20de sentra here at the shop rn. Really want that motor. Also have an 06 trail blazer at the shop. Really want that motor too haha
@@rattyratstuff7125 That's a shoehorn! I'm back on my old bullshit, straight power train "swap" into an 80s hearse. It will be mine, oh yes, it will be mine
I've had my eye on a Trailblazer as a second vehicle. The specific one is a 2006. So thankfully the upgraded head. Thanks for putting this video out.
I'm glad I found your channel. I bought a 2004 TB with 65k miles in 2008. I still have it and it now has 178k miles. I'm picking it up today from the transmission shop. They rebuilt the tranny because the tc blew up. It's a great suv less the bad mpg. It has never fail an emission test.
I've seen some of your vids. You are always missing with the tranny and the tcm,, so what happened? Why did it blew up?!
@@marlo0oty213 I guess because I install a Corvette servo a long time ago. It was shifting to 2nd. too hard for a long time.
@@blackericdenice still you had a chance for a manual tb or some other gear to try other than the 4l60
@@marlo0oty213 I would like to install a 6L80.
@@blackericdenice I can’t wait to see that. Good luck but I guess the trans housing is different you may have to make a custom adapter plate!
I'd like to start by saying your accomplishments are speaking loud. Thanks for all the great information and all the videos, keep doing you and keep pushing these atlas motors to the moon!🎉
Great video. I have watched this video many time studying and learning about the 4200. Thanks
The engine coolant temp sensors are also in different locations. On 02-05 engines its in the block and on 06-later engines its in the head. So if you put a early head on a later block you won't have a place to put a temp sensor. I drilled and taped the upper coolant elbow to house one. Also coming from the repair side of the industry the biggest failure mode we see on these engines is broken valve springs/valve keepers not staying in place, causing bent valves in heads and misfires. This is on stock engines, I'm not sure why it happens but I've seen a trend of them failing this way. The only other failure I've seen is run out of oil causing rod knock.
Yep. Good catch.
Why would you put up an older head on a newer block? Maaan. You have to do the opposite.
I own a 04 trailblazer with the P10. Got a complete 2008 engine. Im gonna swap the crank of 2004 to the 2008 engine and rewire a P12 PCM to get the best ever vortec.
I confirm 2007 head works well on 2005 block.
02 trailblazer had rod knock, had a free 07 engine with a bad head. Cheap is why.
I want one in my 77 impala since sime came with an inline 6. Im looking for a doner truck at the moment.
Your Knowledge is AMAZING!! Thanks for making this video.
Keep up the work, and I'll keep following!
Richard Holdener sent me here.Great to meet your acquaintance. Cool engine.
Thanks bud! Thanks for checking it out too l!
Do all the newer parts " bolt on" to an 02 engine for a rebuild intended for turbo application?
Yes
I just scored a 04 atlas 4.2 with 106k miles for $300 bucks. Ran great in a rust bucket. My mint 03 envoy just hit 270k miles and finally started making the worn valve seat diesel sound.
Good info! After watching your videos, I want to stuff a 4200 into my BMW.
Would be nice in a 5 series. I had a 530i with a Garrett GT40 and it was awesome until a guard rail bit me and caused frame damage. Just a slight dinger on the highway but it was enough.
Likely hood interfearance
First!!!! I've been sooooo waiting for this. Thank you veeeeeeeery much man! Posting this to all TB Groups.
Thank you for responding to my request. Keep making this engines go BUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUURRRRRRR!!!!!!!
No problem. Thanks for the idea!
Nice piece of education Calvin. A lot of misconception out in the forums where people claim that using a 06 and later cylinder head on a 05 block is a way to increase HP. Clearly none of them actually tried what they claim otherwise they would have discovered the bolt pattern variation.
another great vid thanks, Calvin.
Great Video thanks for putting a lot questions and plenty of arguments to rest.
Great video on the differences between the years, could you do a video on the blocks themselves though? I'm pretty sure they're then same but no one talks about them
They're pretty much the same, but there are some non visible differences, like the sleeves in the later ones are apparently stronger.
You can expand virtual VE in HP Tuners for the e67 and 4200 into 3 bar while still utilizing the MAF for NA conditions.
Can you confirm that? You're speaking from experience?
Thanks so much looking to get a 2007 now...WOW lots of improvements !
Great video 👌🏼, 4200 vortec i6 are great motors, change oil every 3000 miles, it's good threw
What about the block itself and the main caps. Also, what does it take to get an 08 block up and running, I mean what aftermarket ECU? MS Squirt?
I'm able to purchase an '08 engine but I want to do the Schneider cam upgrade and I was wondering if I could take the valspel spring retainers from an earlier engine and put it on the '08 so I can run a Schneider cam?
So in a nut shell its pretty much like the ls engine world..
Use the later model pistons rods, and cylinder head on a earlier model block/crank.. because of ecu options(in this case a stronger crank)
I guess there was no changes made to the block between years?
I think they did very minor things. They're all pretty good.
holy crap the exhaust ports on the 06 are like 30% larger than the 05
Thank you for showing the coil differences. I had a hunch the coils were similar to ls coils but couldnt tell for sure.
What do you think of the removable sleeves in the block? If you were to use an aftermarket ECU what would you use? Megasquirt perhaps?
They're not really removable.
I use Megasquirt 3 Goldbox.
@@Calvin-Nelson Replaceable i meant. I read somewhere that they're replaceable, but that of course is the internet. The block does have sleeves correct? I live in San Diego and I'm close to Darton Sleeves. Currently working on an 04 Trailblazer LS. This video was really good to see the difference in heads. Are you using the stock head studs or aftermarket like ARP? And head gasket? I've been looking towards Cometic or whoever makes a multi layer steel. Eventual goal is a remote mount twin turbo setup at the rear axle. I have two genuine Garrett GT3076r's that came off my 05 Audi Allroad project.
@@ProjectCarTV I'm sure that you could sleeve a block. Not really worth it in my opinion. The stock blocks will take some abuse from what I've read and experienced. All the stuff we've done is with the stock engine. Not even opened up. They come factory with MLS head gaskets.
@@Calvin-Nelson gracias!
@@Calvin-Nelson Thanks a lot! I'll have to do some sleeving no doubt though. I ordered a 4l60e from Monster Transmission that's good for 1000+. I saw the stock rods in your video and although they're pretty beefy I think I'll go with Pauter. I'm lucky to be where I'm at in San Diego, so many good companies in this city. Crower, Pauter, Carillo, Darton. Not to mention machine shops. I have a spare block that I'm going to be taking for machining soon. Using two 3076's automatically puts me well above 500hp. I may use a stock block for testing. I have a lot of work ahead. Still have to find a daily driver to take the Trailblazer off the road. One that I won't be tempted to f**k with. I can't even buy a used Hyundai Elantra because the 2.0L engines are shared with Mitsubishi and I'll be tempted once again lol. Thanks a lot. I've been following your channel but never commented.
*Have you done a build using all of the premium parts of all the engines with a detailed description of the parts, if not, are you....*
Following
Does anyone know if there’s a video about swapping the newer parts to the older engine? I have a 03 trail blazer
*Is the aftermarket getting involved...*
Not really. Not enough demand.
The engine is no longer produced
@@shadowopsairman1583 Neither is a 2JZ and they have plenty of aftermarket.
if only....at keast one can dream
@@shadowopsairman1583
*A 1957 Chevrolet or 69 Camaro isn't either, hence the name "aftermarket"*
My mom has a old 2003 trailblazer with a 4200. 120,000 miles, beat up a little but in decent condition. Transmission is like 20,000 miles cause it died at 100,000 (I don't know why, mom had to get it replaced). Going to dust it off, has been outside sitting for the past year, get it inspected and add maybe the ss body kit to it and some bigger tires, and do e85 swap with some boost and it will be prime.
So,I want a 2002 crank,06 up head,06 to 08 ecu,06 up rods and pistons. Also wondering if a 06 up intake cam would improve performance on a pre 06 engine.
You do not want a 2002 crank. They are unique. You want a 2003-2005 crank.
I'm actually in the process of seeing if an 06+ cam will improve my 04 engine.
if im understanding that you just want all the best parts then you want an 06/07 complete truck and swap a 03/05 12 weight crank into your block.
EPIC video! Thanks for the wealth of information!!! How's the height compare to a LS with a truck manifold? Any forged piston or rods out there? ARP head, main, or rod bolts? I'm just starting to research this. I was going to do a LS and a remote mount turbo on my Astro van but this looks like an interesting option. Thanks for helping out Holdener. I'm interested to see his upcoming tests too.
This should answer the majority of your questions. sites.google.com/view/vortec4200wiki/home
@@Calvin-Nelson You rock! Thanks!
What a great site. Well done 👍🏻
Did any of them get a forged crank? In some of the 3500v6 (non vvt) GM put a forged crank in them, and others got a cast, but they all got the PM rods.
I don't think so.
Is it possible to put an 06 engine in an 08? If so what needs to change? ECU? and Harness?
So friend has an 07 2x2 with bad engine / rod knock till it warms up after short time drive comes back. He got a deal on an 04 4x4 thats clean. Seems the crank and cam teeth count are the same. Only issue maybe the vvt on the cam as they changed 06/up ? If that isn't an issue should work fine since change rails or what minor things over. Don't thing oil pan isissue. Yard was saying they should interchange according to Hollander. Thanks
Yeah. Should interchange. Like you said the VVT is the only question mark.
So can the 06 up head and cams be installed on the 05 down block? Or can the 05 down crank go in the 06 up block?
Yes, and yes
@@Calvin-Nelson outstanding. Thank you.
@@Calvin-Nelson so if the later rods and piston fit on the 12 counterweight crank would the rotating assembly be unbalanced or does it not matter?
Also Thanks for all the great information you share. It’s awesome
Can you go more in depth on using the stock ecu for boost? Also I want very badly to use this motor for my next drift car build. I know you’re a drag guy but if you (or any one else) had any input on how a 4200 might perform in a drift car, I’d love to hear it. I’ve also been binging all of your 4200 videos, great information and awesome builds!
Doing a drift build is totally doable. As with any drift car, the key is oil control. There is a guy in Sweden that has a really sick Volvo Drift car with a 4200.
Check this out for more information. sites.google.com/view/vortec4200wiki/home
Could you run an 04 motor in an 07 would the phasers mess up it running correctly
So, if I have a 2008 or later 4200 and want to throw on a turbo, I would have to get a p12 ecu and switch to an earlier crankshaft? Does the p12 work with the later 58 tooth reluctor wheel? I am trying to search online and everything that I see is for V8s and other engines.
Do you have the same type of information for the 4 and 5 cylinders?
I have an 07' 4200 that spun a rod bearing, and its too far gone for the crankshaft and rod cap to be machined! I found an 02' 4200 what do i need to do to make it work for my 07'? Can i use the 02' lower( block, crank,) and use the 07' head, oil pan, n timing gears, or will it not work that way?
Hi, I've got a quick question. I have an 05 trailblazer ls 4.2 but I think I've got an 06 engine. I recently had the exhaust manifold replaced. If the shop put on an 05 manifold instead of an 06, would it make a difference. I checked and they are 2 different part numbers. Thanks
It may have a very tiny effect on power, but I doubt it. The 05 manifold has smaller ports and runners on the manifold.
one question I have is, will a 06+ cylinder head work on an 02-05 block?
so what's the rod upgrades as knocking 4200 seems everywhere
Damn glad i watched this vid im in the process of building an 07 motor and i was wondering what years they was the same as.
What about the built-in pcv valve system maintenance?
Just wondering 🤔 if I could use the new type of ignition coils on an 03 trailblazer?
Yes. I sell adapter kits
Hello budy one question, i saw that you have a lot of experience how can install on these engine a t5 transmmission, is there an adapter for this transmission?? Any idea??
Will a 06 trailblazer engine work in a 03 trailblazer?
What's all the modifications I got to do before the engine will start and run good ?
I have an 04 envoy with a rusted frame but, found a 06 envoy with bad trans, planning on swapping the whole thing, will I have to swap harness and ecu since theyre somewhat different?
Hey brother I have a 2005 trail blazer ls wit a 4200 I just got an 1986 caprice four door I was wondering can I swap out the engine from the trail blazer into the old school box Chevy caprice? Thank your answer would help me a lot brother 🙏🏽💙💯
When there is a will there is a way. Just have to get the tape measure out and see how hard it is going to be. Measure the length and height, available and make your decision. With a sawsall and a welded anything is possible.
I have a colorado and want to keep the 58x wheel so that way all my guauges will still work along with other body functions. Can a stand alone ecu be wired in some how to piggy back?
Yes. You'll have to send the signal from some sensors to both ECUs (crank sensor, cam sensor, TPS, etc), and add redundant sensors (map sensor, CLT sensor, IAT sensor, etc). Then you'll have to have the aftermarket ecu take over control of the coils and injectors.
It's not ridiculously hard. Just get a good wiring diagram for the stock ecu and go one wire at a time.
Where do i get an Aluminum Intake Manifold like that or did you make that custom where can I get performance parts
Calvin, by chance do you happen to know the oem part #'s for the p12 ECU & the 12 Counterwight crank? Thanks!
I don't, but you could probably easily find it on GM parts direct.
@@Calvin-Nelson i looked on rock auto but theres actually so many i wanted to be exact if possible.
Hey i have a 05 gmc envoy with the 4.2 its got a check engine light on the dash for code p0014 which is the advanced timing on cam b code i was just wondering do you know if i have to do timing belts or if there's just some cam sensor i have to replace
I’m assuming you can put a 06+ head onto a 02-05 4200 if you have a complete dressed 06 head setup?
Yes
Probably a weird question but, how much difficulty in harness (and ecm) change would it be to put a early engine in an 06 and up?
Not hard at all.
So long story short for a swap + turbo situation, I want an 06+ 4200 and P12 ECU?
Im thinking about a high rpm build. You spoke of these 4200's revving to 10,200 rpm. What valvetrain and rotating assembly would they be using?
Definitely have to shim the lifters to essentially make then solid. Another hot ticket is to use Ecotech followers. They are stronger, and interchange. Not sure what to recommend on valve springs. I found a set of 2JZ valve springs that will work, I just don't know if it will work at 10,000 RPM. These engines have very bad harmonics at around 6,500 RPM. Guys that are taking them to 10,000 RPM run like 7,000 stall converters. Basically they just get through the bad harmonics as quickly as possible.
I would probably be wise to put cams in it so that it will make power at that RPM. Billet cams are expensive, but you probably can get away with a regrind. In my opinion the stock cams are pretty decent and you can do a lot with them. Not sure if they'll support power at 10,000 rpm.
This may be a silly question but I ask because I don’t know. Would the earlier 4.2 crank fit in the later 4.2 block? Or could a later head be bolted onto an earlier block?
Yes and yes
@@Calvin-Nelson wonderful, I appreciate the response!
Can you help me please? I cant seem to get the timing right. I have an 07' engine and a new cloyes timing chain.. it says something about turning the actuator to the right before installing but from what i can tell its already all the way to the right. My marks all line up correctly but i have no compression when all said and done. Ive pulled this engine 3 times and dont know what im doing wrong.. can you give me any pointers. I thought i was a pretty decent mechanic but now im doubting myself. Ive even honed cylinders replaced rings and gapped them and lapped all the valves.. any help would really be appreciated
Have you performed a compression test?
To double check the timing on the motor, at cylinder 1 TDC, the flats at the back of the cams should be level. Should be able to lay a straight edge across them. This may not be 100% perfect, because the exhaust cam may have some angle.
I've put an 06 engine into the 05 trailblazer and engine doesn't run, misfires as if out of time. Can I remap the ECM to accommodate the change? Been told it would never run. Any suggestions?
Should run fine. They have the same trigger type. I'd check to make sure the cams are timed correctly. Go though the basics. Check for bad coils, injectors, etc.
According to the latest info on the net, the E67 is now capable of being tuned for boost.
I have 02 engine that engine is good. Or not???? What engine do you recommend????
Really cool video man! Thank you!
Hey buddy got a wrecked 09 Trailblazer I6 will that go in a 06 Trailblazer I6 with no electrical problems or anything
09 has a different ecm, so no
@@Calvin-Nelson thanks man getting tired of waiting for a 08 09 to show up needing motor....
thanks for the info i have a 2007 gmc envoy with a bad motor but the replacement motor is out of an 2003!! im guessing i might run into some problems... do you know how much of a problem thats gonna be? i have both completed vehicles 2007 GMC envoy and 2003 Chevy Trailblazer for any donor parts i need
Only problem may be the VVT has different characteristics. The tune may be a little unhappy. Also the airflow of the engine may be a bit different, but it should be close-ish.
@@Calvin-Nelson thanks do you have any advice for what I can do about it bc from what I can tell after starting it this morning, you are exactly right! I started it ran surprisingly smooth until I shut it off and tried again
@@GrizzlyEnd I don't deal with the stock computers very often. Not sure what to recommend.
Why the decrease in power on the last two years of the 4.2's production life?
Possibly emissions or SAE rating requirements. Having driven and worked on all of them, the 08-09 engines are the smoothest, most power etc. in factory form.
So if I build one you take the early model crank and put it in the 06 and up engine can you use the 06 and up rods and pistons.
Yes
Looks like I’m 06 the chamber volume may have been reduced I see in the video on the exhaust side more aluminum in the chamber
They do have higher compression.
So it's much like a LS, they all will GO, only you may want a aftermarket ecm, do the later model heads fit the early engin? Great video, I appreciate the knowledge!!
If what you are asking is do the LT heads fit on the LS, then yes the bolt holes line up. They changed the dowel locations, and again you have to come up with a solution for the valve order.
Great video and thanks for all the content. I plan on building one of these in the future for sure! Can you use the older crank in the newer blocks? If so, what is needed to change, upgrade or use to do it?
Thanks. Yes. Only thing you really need to do that is tools. That and I'd get some new main bolts.
I wonder if it can be made to work with a terminator x with 58x reluctor
Yes. You will not be able to control the VVT unfortunately.
@@Calvin-Nelson hopefully once there's a bigger cam option it won't matter
Awesome video Calvin. Seriously valuable info here. One question. How much does the long block weigh?
A bare long block weighs about 320pounds.
Thank you. That is much lighter than I expected. Some day I will get one and thanks to you will not have to learn the hard way.
Very informative thank you. My question is in a stock application how difficult is it to use an 06 head on an 03 engine that is in a trailblazer.
Very easy. Bolts on.
With these engines can you do a hot cam swap.
Put 2 intake cams or exhaust cam’s depending on size.
In the KA24de you can put 2 exhaust cams in and it keeps the motor breathing with larger lift at high rpm
No. The cams are different. Exhaust has VVT stuff in the cam, so won't interchange.
Is my 05 4200 vortex worth the trouble of upgrading it and if so where should I start. Right now it's factory and any advice would help. I mostly trail ride no mudding and I don't race just need to get up those hills.
Thank you so much for your videos. You are awesome.
Did the block change? Can you swap the heads on the block?
Question? is the 2005 s'type jaguar 4.2L based off GM's 4.2L v6
It is not
The 4200 God over here. Thank you!
I am planning to put the inline 5 or 6 if it works my goals are 400 to 500 hp on a na miata.
That would be nasty dude
Just got an 05 is it still a good motor before the upgrades
Is it a simple swap to put 12 Counterweight crank into a 0607 engine?
Im swapping 08 4200 in a 91 s10 and this video made me a subscriber
Isn't that an awful lot of compression to be adding a turbo to? We were always told use a low compression motor if you're adding boost
And on the 5th day God created alcohol, and everyone made more power, and it was good.
You can get it from the pump these days. It's pretty sweet
My usual tuner cannot flash '06-'07 computers. Any idea why?
To add: These engines are very sensitive to oil change intervals and quality of oil.
IIRC a full dressed engine is roughly 550lbs. About the same as an iron headed SBC. Theyre not light weights.
No idea. I've never tried to flash one, so not sure.
No they are way lighter than that. A bare long block is 320 pounds.