[W126 Coupe] Fw: 380 Engine "Swap" ?

[Mdefran at earthlink.net]

I can speak from firsthand knowledge about the swap or conversion from a 380 to either a 500 or 560.

The change from a 380 to a 500 is just a swap as everthing is the same and all just bolts in and off you go. The job is something around 20 to 30 hours labor depending on exactly what you want to do. When we did mine, we took my 84 engine and transmission and transplanted it into a 380SE. No problem. The SE now has the heart of a SEC.

If you go from the 380 to the 560, you better be prepared to part with alot. First, it is not a swap but a conversion. You will not be able to keep the transmission. Second all the electronics are upgraded and the engine etc. will need to be rewired. 

The labor required is in the 60 hour neighborhood. The engine and a/c better be in good working order as the compressor is even different. 

If you have to swap a 380 for a 560, then be prepared to add the core charge to this deal. Based on Adsitco, the engine only would be over $5K plus transmission.

The nice part is that you will have a lighter SEC due to no hydraulics.

I would suggest your budget be in the $10K range to take into account unexpected issues.

Hope this helps.

Mark D.
Stealth