Engine Swap Wiring: What You Need To Know

wiring good
Chapters:
00:00 Intro
02:14 The Basics
03:01 Wiring Diagram Basics
09:37 Standalone ECUs
13:34 Collecting Diagrams
16:59 Relays
18:53 Powering the ECU
23:36 Making the Adapter
27:52 Testing the Adapter
31:47 Inputs and Outputs Basics
36:39 Configuring Outputs
38:44 Reusing Factory Wiring
48:25 Misc Info
1:00:23 Tools and Consumables
1:03:05 Outro
Affiliate links to tools/consumables:
Non-insulated butt connector, 22-16 AWG: amzn.to/3r8UOAk
Non-insulated butt connector kit: amzn.to/46nPGIB
Non-insulated butt connector crimper: amzn.to/46p2Q82
Low-temp solder eat shrink butt connectors: amzn.to/42WCsQd
Heat shrink 3/32": amzn.to/3pstah5
Heat shrink 1/8": amzn.to/3PBF96z
Heat shrink 3/16": amzn.to/3puBzjV
Portable soldering iron: amzn.to/3Jzxy4S
Soldering station: amzn.to/3PyBypT
Solder: amzn.to/42X2jHv
Auto wire strippers: amzn.to/44itQUY
Good multimeter: amzn.to/3JBBVw5
Cheap Multimeter: amzn.to/44jn8hE
Socials:
Instagram: / blackthumb.tv
TikTok: / blackthumb.tv
Website: blackthumb.tv/

[@mitchj6245]

I clicked on this video honestly expecting some kind of ghetto shortcut, and my man hit me with textbook facts and a professional installation guide

[@B0B_J0HN]

Completely underrated channel, nothing but quality from you. Please continue to produce grade A content, love from Indiana!

[@lukehonda173]

I came here to say just that. This is some great content.

[@rage1868]

Sir. You are very good at teaching something that usually seems very complicated. 😮 Everything seems clear and understandable whenever you speak. Thank you.

[@freshcoastrider]

Im only 7 minutes in, and already I have learned so much, its amazing that this is free. Massively under rated for the view count. You have talent, keep on making these vids.

[@punguschungus]

this video was well put together, succinct and straight to the point in a clear and concise manner. a saccharine *thankyou* for the huge amount of time that would've gone into making this. As someone who's halfway through a v6 swap into my 5-speed forester, the wiring was admittedly, daunting. Now knowing a standalone has so much interoperability is extremely useful. thanks man.

[@imcrow6674]

thank you mr goatee man, youve taken my procrastinating down from 6 months to 3 months

[@feddora5776]

I just was recommended this channel came in looking for copper and i found pure gold

[@sltillim]

I’m about to do my first (and possibly only) engine swap. Your translations of this demystified so much of what I’m studying before starting.

[@HarrisonWedel]

did you teach yourself? this is gold.

[@BlackthumbTV]

Yep, all self taught!

[@spiredminotaur6213]

return of the king

[@jamesa.buchertjr.8950]

By far, the most informative, accurate, and well put together videos I’ve seen on here! Not only do you cover the basics clearly, but you explain complexities understandably, without being dry or “preachy”. I’ve followed Smeedia for some time, but have always found myself somewhat annoyed by the end of his postings, if I can make it that far. I’ve been involved in the field for years, and have a soft spot for Subaru. You’re not only genuinely knowledgeable on what you present, and easy to follow, even with complicated materials such as wiring and CAN BUS integration, you’re actually very personable and have a great sense of humor. Some use humor to cover for their lack of knowledge, or underlying Tourette’s syndrome, or both. You manage to keep my interest and be entertaining as well. Not easy for most to do. Most of all, I love that you use what’s out there already, and do it cheaply for fun. That’s what it’s really all about. I look forward to your next posting. And enjoy that Outback! It’s inspired me for a future project, though I’ll probably go the cheaper route with a factory ECU. But I’ve finally seen a supercharger done well on a Subaru. I’d love to manage to do a setup with a new STi 6 speed, and a low profile blower, going for a true sleeper look, (No hood scoops). Keep up the great work. Great production editing too btw! Thanks.

[@BlackthumbTV]

Thank you for your kind words, and best of luck on your projects!

[@valqkasdf]

ROFL - "Don't be a barbarian!" and at 24:07 you are so delicately gently hacksawing the board connector. ROFL. Yes, using how air station and/or a vacuum pump with solder iron is so much slow and complicated (and requires hotair station and patience ) buuuuutt - hey, hacksaw works too :D + often there are premade boards that you can solder the OEM connector to and wire it non-barbarian way. I'd grab a spare ecu from junkyard and find a premade board for it - most cleanest, according to me. Great video! I'm a Subarist too and that's why I found you. Keep up the great fun!

[@jasonwakeman]

I literally was thinking why not just put a separate switch for the fan and fuel pump and he was like we're not barbarians and I was like I am...

[@ThinkFreely2012]

You've certainly earned my like. Don't tell my wife, but now i really want to swap and/or supercharge my 2023 Forester Wilderness. Lol

[@bige3742]

Finally, The one that explains all has RETURNED 🎉

[@witperd1564]

I only discover your channel now. I want to swap my 2004 jeep 3.7 with a Toyota engine and everybody , mechanics , custom car builders , say it can"t be done..They all say what about the ecu and wiring Now after watching your video I know it can be done Thank you. I am going to look for a backyard mechanic to help me.

[@fachinimichael]

Essentially, it's like installing a radio

[@baby-sharkgto4902]

A lot of people out here very fortunate that you made this video 💯

[@RandomlnternetGuy]

This channel genuinely makes me excited when you upload. Great fucking content dude

[@darthmikey9180]

Thank you for taking the time to make this video. You just took what I thought was the biggest automotive mystery and made it a headunit installation.

[@jdmking4776]

I’m in the process of doing a EG33 swap on my bugeye. This has been absolutely best video I’ve ever watched. Wish me luck with my swap!

[@kylemcweeny878]

Omg!!! This video is soooo gooood!!! Bookmarked saved subscribed!!! Freaking soul tied!!!! Thank you!!!!

[@donovanlucibello379]

I watched this video twice all the way through, the second time with a notebook and pen to take copious notes!

[@aBlandAviator]

Dude, your stuff is always quality! Love your videos, great content and info

[@LateralGs]

Man this is awesome. Thank you for sharing this information.

[@Bigoleb0y.]

Absolutely incredible video

[@Corey-DubV]

Great overview!

[@knowbull5hit590]

This was absolute gold! Thank you

[@bobbob-vw1yw]

Great great content love the vid best I have seen in a long time

[@SoLSamuraibloodblade]

Very nice presentation.

[@AlternateRye]

Great video. Can't wait to wire in my standalone when it arrives.

[@TheGarageroller]

This is awesome man, thanks!❤

[@DanTriggerhappyGames]

Videos like this will take me to that next level and get me promoted. You're amazing, thank you so much

[@nickpetersonvfx]

This is a fantastic video. Thank you for sharing! This will come in handy in (hopefully) cleaning up my rx8 body harness a bit. Cheers!

[@ahuriraeddy5476]

Thanks for the great knowledge

[@cyberdrift1]

I like it good detail and covers a topic most places skip

[@BobSaget-gf9qx]

Was wondering what you are cooking up ! Amazing video🙏

[@ivlark1]

Wow thank you, I’ve never required a harness but this is super educational! Thank you!!!!

[@Dansyoung]

Awesome video as usual! I’m definitely interested in more information about the can bus like you talked about at the 59 minute mark. Keep up the great work.

[@samfisher3336]

Dude! You're awesome, and I do owe you

[@Mike_44]

Awesome channel/content dude, such great info! Thank you for posting this.

[@traviskinman3459]

I made it to the end! Great video from the editing to the educational! I'm trying to decide on what drivetrain to throw into my subaru. Think you threw some hurdles I didn't think about.

[@nilsguitarsandmandolins5662]

Amazing, thank you!

[@gwiggy8793]

Great video thank you 🙏🏻

[@michaelfarris1639]

Finally bro. 🤣 good to see ya back man.

[@mattsuter100]

Great content man!! Often debate whether or not to rewire my old prehistoric harness or to buy one already done. Keep it up!

[@michaelrichardson672]

Gifted myself a MaxxEcu Sport with a flying lead harness which will be mated to my 1994 Volvo 940 turbo and havent a clue how to go about the merge...You are explaining this in the most simplest terms Ive heard...Im not even 5 minutes in and have alrrady gained lots of knowledge...My brother, you were born to teach...I cant thank you enough...Now, back to the video and increase my understanding...

[@danieldanda2443]

Thanks, now I understand everything. You can explain it to regular people.

[@PepperyAmoeba]

Honestly an incredible video - just looking to get into a standalone for my engine swap and this is insanely useful. Please continue to make these as these videos are amazing. Thank you!

[@Subieghost]

This is a lot easier to comprehend than I imagined

[@user-yh4il8ux6h]

I like an explanation wiring diagram is rewured to avoid overload❤❤❤🎉🎉🎉

[@user-xe5tm8fb7k]

Wow. Great channel.

[@alexandersimon810]

This absolutely awesome. I learned so much with this video. No bullcrap like other creators..... straight facts plain and simple.... keep going....

[@isaacmarz1882]

by far best explanation

[@theworldcouldalwaysusemore7191]

God bless, this is incredibly well presented. I hope you keep making content like this

[@damnwereinatightspot]

OMG 01:12 minuts in and I feel like this guys talking to me~

[@owenfinney3057]

Dude this is amazing thank you :))

[@a.americandad3885]

First time seeing any content from blackthumb. This guy is spot on with his wiring any one looking to learn should sub.

[@SpeedyFagalas351]

I want to swap a LS into a Hyundai Iload and your video has helped me so much. Thanks

[@SpeedyFagalas351]

Hope you don't mind if i ask you a few questions. If i use the Haltech ECU, does the air bag warning lights etc still work on the factory dash? Rod

[@BlackthumbTV]

This is entirely dependent on the specific car and CAN BUS. Short answer is most likely that those things won't work. I have CAN BUS video on this channel for more info.

[@SpeedyFagalas351]

@@BlackthumbTV Where do you download the ECU/BCU wiring diagrams. I have been searching heaps and only get rubbish.

[@rccarz5]

You are a god amount men for putting this knowledge out for free. Currently in the middle of planning a harness merge of 3 harnesses like the example in the video.. super helpful and everything sort of clicks. Great job.

[@fooligins8722]

Holy shit i needed this, i still have questions but im not as scared as i was

[@azazelakira12]

Yeah we owe you! 🔥🔥🔥💥💥

[@user-qi4mx6mo7s]

At least now I won't get hang up on the wiring when honda swapping my rx8 love it😊

[@guitarfumar]

Wow I’m thoroughly impressed by your video and even more so that you took the time to reply to my comment. And quickly at that! Subscribing and wishing us all the best because we need it with all these projects 😂

[@user-nf3oq2ge3g]

My favorite of all time is when you get say my Subaru rx turbo from 1985 and literally there is no correct service manual or wiring schematic color code or anything for that car so I have the 06 sti that has everything, well I had to make my own wiring diagram custom for swapping and man the first swap was the most tedious merge IV ever done but the capabilities of the 34 dollar a month insurance made it all worth it. After the first merge and labeling everything now it’s just a basic plug and play harness merge whenever I need to swap because i set it up as such. And this is the time for a wire tuck for those interested. It’s already chopped up just run each sensor like a stand-alone and make your own custom hidden wire harness. It really does make everything easier in the long run if you plan on actually working in the car like I do.

[@xynostasos9022]

I'm really waiting for the CAN bus emulation for standalone ECU video. I want to see if it is possible to avoid using a 7000$ oscilloscope to sniff capture the CAN wires. I really want to do it because I want to get rid my factory ECU (a Marelli 5NF JUNK in a 1.6 Fiat Stilo) but retain all CAN connectivity and functions. And I'm looking towards rusEFI due to price. I will especially need it if and when I decide to engine swap a 2.0 5cyl 20VT off a Fiat Coupe. Thanks for all your effort you put in these videos man!

[@ka0skontrol504]

I'm a lurker here, but this got my sub.

[@TastySnax12]

Welcome back, weird engine swap man!

[@DylanL69]

I'm not swapping an engine I'm converting to EFI but this still helps

[@BilzoToGo]

I have absolutely 0 chance of ever swapping an engine due to the fact that i only ever have 1 car at a time so i cant risk breaking it.... but this video was still worth every second, love the content ✌

[@brokeafengineerwannabe2071]

Although I'm not in any position to do such a complex task, your guide is so clear and concise that I could almost pick it up immediately Also, 54:43 in 0.25 speed looks cool

[@randalambrose3448]

Liked and Subscribed

[@bigkatg4m1ng84]

I have it sitting crate style, with its ecm on it. But before I hang it I wanted to set up a manual switch to the starter, fule pump and radiator fan so I can have like a rocket launch board of red switches. With this video it should be a breeze. I'll try to post shorts on it soon

[@chrisv6008]

Man where have you been lol Great information 👍 👌

[@jobamer7684]

Oh yes! I expected a 15 minute video or so. Nice, ill watch it later.

[@cableguy130]

Hidden genius!

[@Imnotthefed]

Best car content ever and I’m ashamed that you wasted your valuable time explaining this great info to a freaking caveman but I will rewatch many times I’m sure to digest it all probably still massacre the execution but thank you for great videos…. I liked and subscribed I hope that it helps you in some way bud

[@BlackthumbTV]

Thanks for your support! Stay tuned because I should have another one coming out here real soon, similar to this one!

[@nobodyschild967]

MAHALOS!!🤙🏾

[@alexanderjones6383]

Real talk, this is great content. I spent 2 days making an adapter harness to put a 4G63 into my 1990 CRX. I just had both wiring schematics printed out and side by side. This was the first time I ever did a cross-platform conversion. I really enjoy how you've really spelled it out for the home gamer. Thank you. You're doing the real work spelling all of this out and documenting this. Please keep it up. P.S. you are in PA I think? What's the local emission/inspection situation there in regards to emissions and inspections? I've a 1992 Merc that I am just putting an LS in and out in NV a car of that age can get a vintage plate with no emissions. If it did even it would just be a sniffer in the tailpipe and not on rollers. I'm not too concerned because I can just run it lean if necessary but I'm going to run a cat.

[@BlackthumbTV]

I am indeed in PA, inspections are county-based. I live in a rural area where there are simply no emissions inspections, and that's intentional lol

[@jacksonloper2402]

I could kiss this dude rn he be saying all the shit I need to know to make my v8 Miata happen

[@BlackthumbTV]

👁👄👁

[@usiak13]

I love you ❤️😂

[@dallasvanwyk]

💯

[@eodninja6]

I have done several toyota engine swaps. 1MZ, 3MZ in celicas. 5Vz in older 4runners. 3S-GTE also in celicas. I can speak by good experience, Toyota wiring diagrams are 100% better over Subaru.

[@FreddyFunderbunz]

I love the thumbnail of u watching yourself on American Idol

[@Dedicationbrandco]

Awesome video. Very informative Kinda funny though, a whole wiring video while your 3D printer and air conditioner are using the same extension cord haha.

[@BlackthumbTV]

Lmao! Old house problems...

[@stu.c]

You had me at "we're not barbarians", with the delicate re-purposing of the factory ECU connector...

[@Phr00tage]

me, watching the entire video, never planning on doing an engine swap: "this is really good info, mmmhmmm"

[@tj_1260]

Coolk

[@franzelfelix5493]

Dude ,,, glad you are okay…..

[@chuckfinley3152]

“The magic of relays”

[@peterebanks1500]

You are awesome. I want to h6 swap my 2009 forester now. Help please???????

[@LightGesture]

I started this video thinking, cool.. its being broken down. Half way through i states getting lost. I'm definitely going to have to watch this video again and again... Would definitely help having the video show the examples thereof.. but im sure if i could understand this, it's not necessary... and itd take forever.. But anyways, so far, i think it will be something doable.. nervous as hell though

[@inusa1618]

Thanks for your efforts, can I control diesel Duramax swap with haltech or do they have standalone can bus for diesel

[@BlackthumbTV]

Haltech is gasoline-only, as are many others. I believe most people doing diesel swaps will use the factory ECU, strip down the harness to make it standalone, and reflash the ECU so it doesn't need to talk to any other modules in the car (disable VATS, etc).

[@inusa1618]

@@BlackthumbTV thanks a lot, I'm doing lbz dmax into my H1 hummer

[@VAGHolic]

Well can I ask u a big favor? Can I get an idea of a harness for a 525i swap to a Vw Passat

[@SloppyMechanics]

will this work on my honda? - mcm

[@BlackthumbTV]

Those guys WISH I would wire their builds for them

[@user-sm4uo8eg9s]

i thought it was nightmare you made it easy man 😂 , where you download engine diagram do you use any specific site ?

[@BlackthumbTV]

No specific site. Technically you're supposed to buy the FSMs as they're copyrighted material (like a book).

[@asmiruskovic2489]

Something like this for TCM 545rfe transmission. Please

[@user-ly7re8yz6z]

can you do my wiring ? e46 to a 1uz fe with a stand alone?

[@user-yh4il8ux6h]

Wiring diagram is requred🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@ahuriraeddy5476]

But I missed to understand this, that the ECM only produces only negative in outputs to all connections.

[@bigkatg4m1ng84]

Im putting a 5.7 z06 engine in a ranger