50 results for “engine swap”
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Tech Desk
Removed for 2021
Q.Can one swap a JDM engine that makes MORE than 3% more power than the USDM engine, and take on engine swap points as calculated via the engine swap calculator. A.Any JDM engine used in a USDM car must adhere to the BCCR's rules on JDM swaps. Same displacement, same design, within 3% hp of OE USDM engine. The use of a random JDM engine in a random USDM car, even claiming swap points, is not allowed. Michael Chisek
Tech Desk
Swaps
Q.Lets say that I wanted to swap from a N/A engine to a Factory Turbo engine such as a "ford Ecoboost engine" How would this be valued? Would it just be using the swap calculator and does the swap include the Intercooler and such for the Turbo application? A.The first step is to confirm that the engine you are swaping to is used in a vehicle already listed on the VPI List.You will be able to use the complete engine and turbo c...
BCCR Rulebook
2026 BCCR
4.5 - ENGINE SWAP
4.5. ENGINE SWAP 4.5.1.Use the Swap Vehicle Performance Index Calculator at https://champcar.org/web/register/vpiswap.php to determine your vehicle’s total swapped value. The starting VPI of your vehicle when swapped may differ from the VPI of your un-swapped vehicle as listed in the VPI Index. This allows for substantially similar cars to be grouped together with the same starting value once the stock engine has been removed (I.E. All E30s start from 450 points) 4.5.2. The web page provides an automated calculator. The raw swap formula is: IF [16 - (SPV / (HP + hpAdd) ) > 0 ] THEN [ 0.032 * (16 - (SPV / (HP + hpAdd))) ^6] + 50 ELSE + 50 4.5.2.1. “SPV” refers to the ChampCar Swap Performance Value of that make and model, as determined by ChampCar. 4.5.2.2. “HP” is the stock horsepower of the original engine. 4.5.2.3. “hpAdd” is the amount of extra horsepower being added to the car, not t...
Tech Desk
Swaps
Q.If I have a swap that has the IDENTICAL HP rating will the swap take 50 Points or more. For example I want to swap my 209 HP Ford engine with a 209 HP Honda engine, will the swap be 50 or more points? A.4.5.2.5. All engine swaps that result in a reduction of horsepower will be charged a flat 50 point fee.IDENTICAL HP is not a reduction of hp, and thus should use the swap calculator to determine points. Verified by TECH 8-6-2...
Tech Desk
Swaps
Q.We have a car that was platform swapped. Now we've done an engine swap from another generation leaving all the other swapped bits in place. Can we continue to claim the swapped platform VPI adding points for the engine swap or does the car revert to it's original VPI/platform? A.It should be valued as the highest valued model from its generation with an engine swap. This does allow you to use OE parts from the highest value...
Tech Desk
Swaps
Q.When performing an engine swap what parts can be reused from the original engine?For example a common ChampCar swap is to replace the 87-93 Mustang engine with a 96-01 Explorer engine. The desired parts are the short block, heads, and intake manifold.What about the Mustang accessories, timing cover, pulleys, starter, and oil pan?How about more functional items like the distributor, am I required to switch to the Explorer's d...
Tech Desk
Removed for 2023
Q.My question is what coolant expansion tank can be used with 0pts added since my swap engine is designed to use one and my car did not come with one. A.The expansion tank that was OE with the swap engine can be used points free. The market value of the tank needs to be included in the $2500 swap cap.An aluminum tank is not required as part of the swap and is a non oe component item and has a 5 point value.Revised 01Jan2022 -...
Tech Desk
Engine & Cooling
Q:If you take a cylinder head swap off the VPI list on a OHC engine you acquire the cams and valve train. If an aftermarket head like Brodix trick flow was purchased on a V8 engine you can claim roller rockers and other valve train. If an aftermarket casting for an over head cam engine in this case Honda is available are any cams and valve train included in the head swap?A:A billet head swap does not include valve train and it...
Tech Desk
Removed for 2023
Q.I have a question about the VPI for a 1990 Mazda Miata. The base value for the 1990 Miata on the table is 250. Our Miata has a 1.8l engine from a 1999 Miata. When we use the swap calculator, it says that our new value is the original value of 300 + 50 for a total of 350. Is the base value for a 1990 Miata 250 or 300?A. Based on VPI numbers dated Q1 2020.Whenever an engine swap is performed, the swap must start with the highe...
Tech Desk
Swaps
Q.I have a 1991 Miata I am doing a complete 1999 driveline swap. The European version of this vehicle has a different intake manifold than the US version. I planned on using this as it came with my driveline swap. I just want to be sure that the manifold does not cost points. Again, this is an OEM Stamped Mazda intake manifold. A.When paying SWAP points, to use the EuDM intake manifold you must be using a complete EuDM engine...
Tech Desk
Swaps
Q.In regards to Rule 4.5.3:"Engine swaps include stock long block, stock exhaust manifolds, stock induction system, motor mounts, starter, ECU, wiring, and transmission adapters"This rule makes no mention of the oil pan. Question 1: How many points is it to run an aftermarket oil pan that aids in the packaging of the swapped engine?Question 2: How many points is it to fabricate an oil pan that aids in the packaging of the swap...
Tech Desk
Swaps
Q.as per Rule 4.5.3: "Engine swaps include stock long block, stock exhaust manifolds, stock induction system, motor mounts, starter, ECU, wiring, and transmission adapters."If one were to fabricate the engine mounts and transmission adapter as opposed to buying these items off the shelf, what would be the equivalent dollar value associated with each? Would it simply be the cost of the raw materials required? A.Yes, it would be...
Tech Desk
Suspension
Q.So in order to run the Front anti-roll bar with a <engine swap>, You are required to space the sway bar down and forward. The <engine swap> kit includes some brackets, as well as hardware and aluminum blocks that stiffen the mount. Would we be allowed to run these at no additional point cost? I also take the 20 points for an aftermarket front sway bar, if they are not considered part of the necessary swap hardware, could the...
BCCR Rulebook
2026 BCCR
4.6 - PLATFORM SWAP
4.6. PLATFORM SWAP 4.6.1. As an alternative to an engine swap, teams may qualify for a platform swap. A platform swap is defined as replacing the original components with all the components from the same chassis family (i.e. – 318 to 325 BMW engine swaps or 2.8L to 5.7L Chevy Camaro). To qualify as a platform swap, all of the differing vehicle components must be swapped to match the new platform. This includes engine, transmission, differential, suspension, fuel tank, etc. The VPI of the car will now be based on the car and engine combination as presented to tech, regardless of what engine may have been installed originally. No swap surcharges shall be applied to platform swaps.
Tech Desk
Engine & Cooling
Q.My team bought a parts car to replace our damaged engine. After removing the engine and delivering to the machine shop, we found out the block is a K20Z3 instead of a K20A2. If we use this block, will it cost us engine swap points? A.The K20Z3 block may be substituted for the K20A2 block (and vis-versa) due to there being 0 performance difference. Verified by TECH 2024
Tech Desk
Engine & Cooling
Q.We have a 1992 Acura Integra build with the B18A1 engine. However the A1 is increasingly difficult to find. I picked up a running B18B1 from a 1994 Integra (same VPI as 1992) which is the same engine as the A1 for use as a spare. Would we be charged with 50pts swap by using the B1 if we had an engine failure? I want to be certain so I either sell the B1 or insure we stay at least under 450 pts total in case we would have to...
Tech Desk
Drivetrain & Axle
Q:The 5 speed NA and NB Miata transmission have exactly the same parts, gearing, functionality and fitment. Only difference is the shifter which provides no advantage, arguably the NB being the weaker one.Is there any way to allow NB transmission swap into NA chassis? I know it's irrelevant but in SM is allowed to swap either/or since they provide no advantage between them.Reason I am asking is because NAs are slowly becoming...
Tech Desk
Removed for 2022
Removed for 2022 due to BCCR change Camshaft -– AftermarketNon-OE, or reground or reprofiled OE camshaft, (Includes Springs, Lifters, Pushrods): 50 pts per engine Q. Per 2020 BCC: "Camshaft or valve train, non-OE: 50 pts per engine" * Does this rule mean non-OE camshaft AND rockers is 50 points per engine? A. The "camshaft or valve train" rule is defined by the word "or" here. So your cam swap is 50 points and that includes...
Tech Desk
Engine & Cooling
Q. If I were to do a head swap, would the head be required to come off of a car on the VPI list?Would I be allowed to use the stock header for the head for 0 points, or would I still have to use the stock header from the original engine? what would be the case if the original header does not fit the swapped head?A.When you pay the 100 points for a head swap, you can use any head you like. It does not need to be from a car on t...
Tech Desk
Engine & Cooling
Q. Nissan 280z 1977Hi, this is Rod, team captain for the Flyin' Hawaiians & 2 White Guys Car #82. We damaged our motor at Auto Club in November and I've replaced the motor with another L28. This motor has different casting numbers on it. I can tell from those numbers that this motor is from a 1980 280zx. I'm just using the block and head. Do I now have to claim a motor swap? A.The difference between the 1977 L28 engine and the...
Tech Desk
Swaps
Q.I wanted to confirm that a JDM Mazda Miata engine (99-00) is allowed under the swap rules. It was brought to my attention that it may not be and I wanted an official ruling. The JDM engine is rated at 143hp vs. 140-142hp for USDM. It includes a BP5A cam vs BP4W, the BP5A is advanced 2 degrees but the same lift and duration as the USDM cam. Exhaust cam, pistons, rods, head, block, and everything else in the long block is iden...
Tech Desk
Removed for 2021
Q.Can I add the 1999 or 2001 Ford Mustang Cobra rear diff to my older generation Ford Mustang for 25 points? A.The 99/01 Cobra used an IFS rear end. If you swap the diff only into another car, you will incur the 25 point cost of it.If you swap the entire IFS rear end, including the diff and drive axles, the points cost for that complete IRS is 50 points.
Tech Desk
Engine & Cooling
Q. What is the ruling on going the opposite way of the rule below? Going from a cable TO a DBW.4.7.3. Drive by Wire Throttle Bodies:4.7.3.1. Engines originally equipped with a drive by wire throttle body may replace the OEthrottle body with a cable operated throttle body from any vehicle on the VPI list, aslong as the replacement throttle body has an equal or smaller flow diameter.A. The rule only provides what it says, not th...
Tech Desk
Drivetrain & Axle
Q.Are all of the required components for a transmission swap included for the 25 point fee? Those parts include: non-OE bellhousing (for adaptation), front driveshaft yoke and possibly driveshaft length modification, non-OE transmission support member & mount, different clutch/disc, shifter handle & knob. Thanks for your help!A.Yes you get all the parts you list with a standard driveshaft and H pattern shift for 25 point add V...
BCCR Rulebook
2026 BCCR
4.3 - FIXED POINTS
4.3. FIXED POINTS 4.3.1. Non-stock Component Values: ChampCar has assigned a FIXED POINT VALUE that will be applied to MOST non-stock and/or performance components. 4.3.2. Fixed Point Value List: ABS, Non-OE, from a vehicle on VPI list: 25 pts Aerodynamic Devices (See Appendix 1 – Aerodynamic Anatomy for more info) o Spoiler / Wing / Splitter / Diffuser / Aero Pan / Air Dam / Side Skirts: 10 pts/ea. Any added aero component outside of the defined components will be charged points based on the square feet of material Alternator, non-OE and not from VPI List: 10 pts Adjustable Cam Gear(s): 5 pts single, 10 pts multiple Automatic Transmissions with 4 speeds (gears) or less, -75 points With 5 speeds, -50 points With 6 speeds, -25 points With 7+ speeds, no discount. An automatic transmission will still be defined as being coupled to the engine through a torque converter. Twin-clutch type tran...
Tech Desk
Removed for 2021
Rule 4.5.3. & Swap Form item #3: What’s included in a motor swap Tech interpretation and enforcement is that the Nissan Maxima V6 into a 240SX requires the use of an OEM 350Z intake manifold, no points. Jay Mauney - Chief Tech Director
Tech Desk
Removed for 2021
Q.How many points is a complete IRS (Independent Rear Suspension) swap? A.If you remove a complete IRS assembly including the diff and drive axles from a car on the VPI list the points cost for that complete IRS is 50 points.Any addition materials used will be charged per square footAftermarket IRS are charged at a rate of ten points per arm. Plus diff cost if a swap. Not all aftermarket units are approved. All aftermarket uni...
Tech Desk
Removed for 2021
Q1.How many points to run a lightened flywheel? How many point to run a multi-disk clutch?There is also a case where a single mass conversion kits for cars that originally had an expensive and unreliable dual-mass flywheel. The kit is often cheaper than the original OEM dual mass. Also, would it be 0pts to use a lighter single mass flywheel if it was required for an engine swap and fit in the $2500 swap money? A1.You can switc...
Tech Desk
Engine & Cooling
Q.If we build our engine 40 over - will that push us into EC, or cost us points? If points, how many? Thanks in advance. A.If the overbore you stated is within factory rebuild specs and uses stock pistons, those two items would be legalif the overbore has to have aftermarket pistons, then the engine is permitted in E.C class Verified by TECH 2024
Tech Desk
Brake Systems
Q.I am currently working to build a BMW 328ci (E46). In this process, I am starting with a 2003 325ci and swapping the necessary components to make it equivalent to the 2000 328ci.Regarding the traction control systems, 2003 325 was produced with the DSCIII MK60 unit, while the 328 was produced with either the MK20 EI ASC (1999) or DSC III MK20 (2000).Is it permissible to retain the 2003 325ci traction control unit for no poin...
Tech Desk
Fuel Storage and Fueling
Q:We are currently evaluating the addition of a fuel surge tank. To avoid installation inside the driver compartment, and with limited undercarriage space to safely tuck, we are considering a last resort of installing in the vacated battery tray area of the passenger side engine bay near firewall. Complying with the 2L (0.5 gal) max size, we are looking at some of the higher end / thicker wall devices including Radium. Would t...
Tech Desk
Fire Systems presented by Lifeline Fire USA
Q. Does the tank have to be mounted transversely? A. Really, any position is OK so long as the bottle is horizontal and mounted to a flat surface in the car. Angled and or vertical means the dip tube can't pick up the last remnants in the bottle and will prevent the system from deploying the entire amount, making it less effective. Q. The ChampCar rules state one nozzle is all that is needed in the cockpit and engine. A. I w...
Tech Desk
Engine & Cooling
Q:Our car has a transmission cooler built in to the stock radiator that we use to cool engine oil (example rad pictured - the two fittings at the bottom). We are considering going to an aluminum radiator since our rad died1. Can we buy one with a similar built in trans/oil cooler and still meet the free aluminum rad rule?2. Can we use the aluminum one but run a separate trans/oil cooler (much cheaper option) but understandable...
Tech Desk
Engine & Cooling
Q. What is the point value charged to run the BMW E46 vehicle with OEM BMW E36 exhaust manifolds (as required in spec E46 class)? A.As the catalytic converters are built into the e46 exhaust manifold, a swap of the E36 exhaust manifold would incur zero points. The approved factory E36 BMW exhaust manifolds that ChampCar will allow on an E46 for zero points are: part # 11 62 1 744 250 part # 11 62 1 744 251 Verified by TECH 202...
BCCR Rulebook
2026 BCCR
4.7 - OTHER EQUIPMENT THAT DOES NOT COUNT TOWARD THE TOTAL POINT VALUE
4.7. OTHER EQUIPMENT THAT DOES NOT COUNT TOWARD THE TOTAL POINT VALUE 4.7.1. Teams may replace any worn, broken, ventilated, impaled, defective, or bent beyond all recognition parts on their car without affecting their total points, so long as it’s an OE or OE equivalent part for that car’s specific model. 4.7.1.1. Teams may repair/replace rusted/fatigued/ damaged portions of the chassis with similar-thickness metal or OE-approved repair components/methods. Repairs must maintain some likeness to the original body lines of the chassis. 4.7.1.2. Teams may remove parts or portions of parts from their car without incurring points. 4.7.1.3. STOCK engine rebuilds are permitted. “Stock” is defined as the published specifications and technical measurements provided by the manufacturer. Manufacturer overbore rebuilds are permitted. 4.7.2. Items that are point-free: Air intake components ahead of...
Tech Desk
Removed for 2021
Q.Are we able to change brake master cylinders? We will be upgrading to Wilwood calipers and would need to use a larger master cylinder to match.Open/free master cylinders(and pedal assemblies) may seem like common knowledge at this point (maybe) but it's not actually in the rule book. So I was looking for an official ruling.A.Yes, you can swap out the master cylinder. Dropdown pedal clusters are also free.
Tech Desk
Engine & Cooling
Q.Car: 1986 Ford Mustang LX with 5.0 V8Per 2020 BCCR: "Cylinder head(s), non-OE and/or non-matching to your specific engine claimed. 100 pts per engine." * Does this rule mean installing GT40P heads from a 1997 Mercury Mountaineer incurs the 100 point penalty?* Does this rule also permit aftermarket aluminum heads in place of cast iron for 100 points? A.The 1986 5.0L Mustang was never offered with GT40 heads. The GT40 head mad...
Tech Desk
Drivetrain & Axle
Q.If a stock driveshaft is shortened to move an engine rearward, is there a point penalty?A.Removing material is no point add.On a drive shaft we want a shaft shop to do the work, bring a receipt.An altered non-stock shaft must have a safety hoop installed. Verified 7-2-24 by TECH
Tech Desk
Engine & Cooling
Q:We have an MS3 Pro PnP ECU. We had to install a 36-2 timing wheel to replace the OEM 4 tooth timing wheel. The reason for the timing wheel is that it increases resolution over the OEM wheel and allows the ECU to better see what the engine is doing. We are viewing the timing wheel as part of the ECU system. This would indicate no penalty points.What view does CC take on a non-OEM timing wheel?A:ECU & sensors are free so the t...
Tech Desk
Engine & Cooling
Q. I have planned to add an oil cooler to further protect the engine. Can I repurpose the removed factory heater core by welding AN fittings to it and relocating it to the front to be plumbed in line with the accumulator?If yes, I can provide pictures of all work completed, but I'd prefer not to waste the time if I'll end up paying points anyway.A.Yes, you can repurpose the heater core for cooling. It is best to document the r...
Tech Desk
Engine & Cooling
Q1.What is the value of an aftermarket piston if kept at the same compression ratio? Q2.What would the points if you raised the compression? A1.You cannot use aftermarket pistons unless they are OE equivalent. Please submit the specs. on the desired piston to tech for pre-approval. A2.You can overbore to factory overbore specs but forged or higher compression performance pistons are not allowedVerified by TECH 2024
Tech Desk
Chassis & Roll Cage
Q: There is a current rule for Tubular Front subframe/K-member being 10pts (bolt on only). Would this also apply to a rear tubular subframe? For example, a Pontiac Fiero has the engine mounted in the rear and uses a subframe that is essentially the same as a FWD front subframe except it wouldn’t have a steering rack. Would this also be considered 10 points? If not, how many? A:Bolt in subframe 10 points each Front or Rear Veri...
Tech Desk
Removed for 2022
Removed for 2022 due to BCCR change Coolant Expansion Tanks are point free items Q.I was told today by another competitor that they were being assessed 5 pts for the aluminum expansion tank used on an EcoTec swapped Miata. When Jay saw the same tank during my Skype inspection I was told as long as it was no larger than the one that came with the engine there was no advantage, therefore, no gain or points. the original Malibu t...
BCCR Rulebook
2026 BCCR
4.1 - TOTAL POINT VALUE
4.1. TOTAL POINT VALUE 4.1.1. Cars with total points in excess of 500 points will receive penalty laps (1 lap per 10 points over the allowable 500 point maximum). Points will be rounded up to the next multiple of ‘10’. Greater than 500 and less than 510 will be rounded to 510, greater than 510 and less than 520 will be rounded to 520, and so on. 4.1.2. Total Point Value of the race car is the combination of: The Vehicle Performance Index Non-Stock replacement or other added parts from the Fixed Point Value list Non-Stock replacement or other added parts NOT on the Fixed Point Value list Engine, transmission/transaxle, differential Swap Points
BCCR Rulebook
2026 BCCR
2.3 - ENDURANCE RACING CAR CLASSIFICATIONS
2.3. ENDURANCE RACING CAR CLASSIFICATIONS 2.3.1. Within ChampCar’s endurance racing program, there are six (6) classes of racing: CLASS A – All cars with an engine displacement of 1.91 liters and under CLASS B – All cars with an engine displacement between 1.92 liters and 2.4 liters CLASS C – All cars with an engine displacement between 2.41 liters and 3.91 liters CLASS D – All cars with an engine displacement of 3.92 liters and higher CLASS EC – All exception class cars CLASS F – All cars with a total as-raced VPI of 300 or less 2.3.2. A, B, and C class vehicles with forced induction engines shall be classed in the next higher class (A -> B, B -> C, C ->D). Class D vehicles remain as Class D, e.g., a 2.2-liter turbocharged vehicle will be Class C. 2.3.3. Non-turbocharged rotary-powered cars shall be placed in Class B. Factory-turbocharged rotaries shall be placed in Class C. 2.3.4. Non-...
BCCR Rulebook
2026 BCCR
9.17 - ENGINE FIREWALL
9.17. ENGINE FIREWALL 9.17.1. Openings or holes in the engine firewall under 2” diameter must be closed and sealed with a metal plate or OE-type grommets. Fireproof expanded foam fire block should be used around the roll bar through openings in any fuel areas or engine bay areas. Openings larger than 2” diameter must be closed and sealed with a metal plate that is bolted, welded, or riveted in place.
BCCR Rulebook
2026 BCCR
5.2 - TECHNICAL INSPECTION
5.2. TECHNICAL INSPECTION 5.2.1. ChampCar Digital Tech inspection forms should be completed using the ChampCar website prior to entering the tech line. 5.2.2. Technical Inspections shall be done annually, and upon approval, a car will be issued a ChampCar Annual Inspection decal for that calendar year. 5.2.2.1. Cars with a valid ChampCar Annual Inspection decal need NOT return for inspection UNLESS ANY OF THE FOLLOWING HAVE OCCURRED: 5.2.2.1.1. The inspection decal has expired. 5.2.2.1.2. The vehicle has undergone ANY major component exchange, swap, or replacement as a byproduct of an upgrade, repair, and/or modification. 5.2.2.1.3. The vehicle has realized the upgrade, exchange, replacement and/or modification of any safety item, including but not limited to kill switch, seat belts or harness, seat and/or installation, roll-cage or attachment mounts, fire extinguisher system, window or...
BCCR Rulebook
2026 BCCR
5.4 - POST-RACE IMPOUND AND INSPECTION
5.4. POST-RACE IMPOUND AND INSPECTION 5.4.1. At the conclusion of every ChampCar Race, the top five (5) finishing vehicles, overall, and class winners, shall be impounded for a period not less than 30 minutes and not more than 90 minutes. 5.4.2. During the impound period, the top five (5) finishing vehicles and class winners impounded must: 5.4.2.1. Raise and place the car on four (4) jack stands, a minimum of 12” from the ground or floor level. 5.4.2.2. Remove all four (4) wheels and tires. 5.4.2.3. Open the hood and trunk. 5.4.3. ChampCar will make the cars Tech Sheet and Swap Sheet available for review. 5.4.4. ChampCar competitors and teams are welcome to “review” impounded vehicles. “REVIEW” does NOT mean touch or crawl under a competitor’s car however, you may request a ChampCar official to look at an item for you. 5.4.5. During the impound period, the Event Director or Tech Chief m...
Tech Desk
Engine & Cooling
Tech interpretation and enforcement is that any work done to an engine with a grinder, Dremel or file is open and no points. Examples include gasket matching intake and exhaust ports, deburring intake runners or knife edging throttle body blades. This does not allow CNC porting or extrude honing. Q.Is a drill press considered an allowed hand tool for modifications?Is a shop press considered an allowed hand tool for modificati...
BCCR Rulebook
2026 BCCR
3.15 - MASTER ELECTRICAL KILL (CUT-OFF) SWITCH
3.15. MASTER ELECTRICAL KILL (CUT-OFF) SWITCH 3.15.1. All cars must have a racing-type master electrical kill switch securely mounted in a location accessible to and by the driver while he/she is secured in the driving seat by all seat belts and harnesses. The control or key for this switch should be red and the OFF position should be clearly indicated. Both the main battery circuit and the ignition circuit must be interrupted by the kill switch. All electrical cut-off switches shall be identified by the international lightning bolt symbol. Decals are available at ChampCar Tech Inspection. 3.15.2. The dash or console switch MAY be the sole kill switch, or it MAY be a second switch, wired in series with an existing or additional switch located elsewhere on the car. If the switches are wired in series, interrupting either switch, independent of the other, must kill all power and vehicle op...
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