Building a 300HP N/A GM 3400 v6! Part 1

A quick look into some of the parts that we are working with! Also getting a look at some of the parts that came on the 11:1 compression 3400/3500 hybrid that we picked up a few months ago!
Follow along on Instagram @mod_everything
intro music: Wicked Things by Quincas Moreira

[@SilvermistAlero]

So excited for this build! Its coming up to 6 years since I had that strip cam in the old 3500. Thanks for all your help and support, Scott!

[@modeverything1]

Time to set some records!

[@dave1135]

I have a 1993 olds with the 3.1 multiport, i upgraded the fuel pump, injectors, and did some light polish and porting on the heads, and had the intake extruded honed to clean up casting flash on the inside. Made a big difference in performance. Nrxt is a holley efi system so i can set a base tune. I was a driveability tech at a gm dealership in the 80s and 90s when this engine came out, and i fell in love with it

[@90serawhips-j6o]

Keep us posted

[@chrisb-qy9mm]

Great video! I’m really looking forward to the next one. Makes me want to do some upgrades on my 3400 z24!

[@modeverything1]

Thanks! It's going to be a fun project!

[@tsrorst2792]

Planning on swapping a equinox 3.4 into my 2000 Malibu, swapping the plenum for the more common smaller version for now just so it fits. All stock so should be a fun project over the winter, hoping to integrate some ideas from you vids to boost its power!

[@modeverything1]

I believe you will need an external crank trigger to run it on the malibu pcm. The Equinox/torrent engines have a few differences over the normal 3400/3100s

[@elmarko9051]

Thanks for giving some love to the GM 60° V6 pushrod family. I've been messing around with an LA1 to LX9 swap...almost have it done. Future option to get a bigger throttle body, maybe a tune. Will you use the variable intake runner, or VVT? Or will this be all cam and heads?

[@modeverything1]

This is a 3400 block, so no vvt. For now it will be heads, cam, intakes, headers, then we will work on improving it from there! I'm trying to get more 60* content on KZbin, there is not enough! Hopefully this build gets more people interested in them!

[@elmarko9051]

By the way, I just got done with a LA1 to LX9 swap in my 05 Rendezvous...been running it around for a couple days now. Could not be happier...it fired up within 2 seconds on the starter, like it wanted to run. Now I'm thinking about somehow using the LZ9, getting some of that 3.9 liter goodness instead of a 3.4 setup on a van...but no VVT, no variable intake...just more displacement.

[@modeverything1]

That's awesome! The LZ9 won't be as simple, you need to figure out the 24x crank sensor behind the crank pulley, and a cam sensor since the lZ cam sensor doesn't line up with the reluctor on a 3x00 cam. But you could always swap the ecm / harness and keep the vvt...

[@ButchNackley]

Thank you for sharing all this great information. Hopefully someday soon I'll use some of it.

[@modeverything1]

Thanks! I like when people can learn from the information and help them build stuff!

[@magnusdanielsson2749]

Really interesting to see how this will go. Im rebuilding a 3.4 camaro V6 with 3.1 (gen 2 heads) and 3400 intake. Thinking I might get 220-230 out of it, well anything over 200 would be nice. What camshaft do you think youll go with? What kind of rpm are you aiming for?

[@modeverything1]

Going to use the "strip performance" cam from wot-tech. It still has stock rods so we are going to keep it under 7000rpm, probably 6800 max.

[@geek49203]

Using a GM / Camaro RWD 3.4 for a Locost build, but already have the 2005 GM 3500 LX9 top end ready to install... WOT still a thing? GREAT!

[@modeverything1]

Nice! Is it getting a cam too?

[@geek49203]

@@modeverything1 if one will go into a RWD block, most of what I've seen of the recent stuff goes into a FWD block

[@modeverything1]

@@geek49203 if you search for 2.8 Chevy v6 camshaft you will find off the shelf performance cams. You can also call around to places like delta cams, Crower cams and others to see about a custom grind if you want more than what is offered in the catalogues!

[@javiertate9693]

I have an Oldsmobile Alero 3.4, I looked high and low on all forums and videos available on the topic but no one has a sure list of upgrades available to get the HP from stock, up to 250-300 HP. Besides the basic upgrades (ported heads, CAI, tune, turbo or supercharger, exhaust, what else can I do to get more power and efficiency out of the LA1 engine ? I'm currently in the middle of the process of swapping the old motor and trans out and putting a new one in and I want as many performance parts on there as I can that will have the 3400 running at its peak. My uncles are mechanics and they told me the 3400 isn't a weak motor. I'm hoping someone can actually prove them right and give me the feedback I need to make the ultimate sleeper

[@modeverything1]

Aftermarket cam and exhaust/headers make the biggest gains! I think with a wot tech street/strip cam, headers, ported heads 2.5" exhaust, 65mm TB and a tune would get you around 250hp but I have not dyno tested this combination myself. Or 6-7psi boost on a stock 3400 would get you 250hp+ !

[@kabco99]

Really don't think it's worth it, but go for it, sure it be fun to drive, I'm thinking of just getting the torque camshaft for my 3400 just to give a little extra but that's about it. These roads have been traveled down many times before and wot Tech is miniscule these days they practically have nothing anymore they used to have ported heads ported upper plenums full engine builds for sale. If I personally were to look deep into this I'll be looking how to incorporate or drop in the 3.6 VVT.

[@modeverything1]

We got a good deal on the short block, and we already had a better cam and top end. Wot still has heads and cams available and will probably do a build if you wanted but you would have to contact them. I like to do as much as I can myself and not break the bank. If I was looking for more camshafts I'd look at a platform with more aftermarket support! Lol

[@kabco99]

@@modeverything1 Hell yaa bro. Well i have a pretty nasty tune on it so not looking for too much out the stock RPM range. Tune im currently running is the police tune. However they never use the GM 3400 for police use. This engine loses too much steam after 90mph. However your build may prove slightly different👍

[@asylumville8544]

Any updates on this, looking to build my own N/A screamer for my Fiero.

[@modeverything1]

Got the machine work done on the heads so far, just need to get some other projects finished up first before I get back to this one!

[@asylumville8544]

@@modeverything1 Good to hear!! look forward to it.

[@KMaffittGAGT]

Ready to follow this one!. That's a high number for an old v6 like that! Interesting going off the 1/8. The calculators I was trying to use were only putting me at like 210-220 at most on the 7/8 psi lol it'd be nice to sit right around 300 without having to go past 15 psi!! Look forward to what's next!

[@modeverything1]

Yeah had to go by 1/8th mile because that's the only track that he ran it on! Lol Well there is people claiming that they are making over 300 whp with iron heads on a 3.7l... so 300 crank with aluminum heads should be possible lol Your car has a lot more in it, once its sorted out it will piss alot of people off! Lol

[@JEKitchens]

Since its an iron block how much could we bore over the cylinders? Are there any performance aftermarket parts out there? Im new to these small 60 degree v6s

[@modeverything1]

I believe. 040" is max "safe" limit for boring over sized. Might be able to get away with more if you get the block sonic checked. There is some aftermarket parts depending on the application. Alot of parts are only able used like TCE 65mm Throttle bodys but you can use the 3.5 DOHC Intrigue TB instead with an adapter. Cams you can order from comp cams, pistons are custom for forged. For rods, you can use 327 Small journal SBC rods, but some will need narrowed and the pin bore bored of sleeved (2.8/3.1/3.4). Lots can be done but it's not like others where you can buy what you want off the shelf!

[@cmattdabrat]

Looking good!

[@modeverything1]

Thanks!

[@awelee8902]

My 95 camaro has a 3.4 sfi in it I heard it doesn't take to added power to well

[@modeverything1]

Depends on how much added power you are talking about! The FWD blocks are stronger but the RWD blocks have been pushed past 400hp and held up fine.

[@AndrewMiller-vb9sx]

We got the itch lol ,following your channel now lol my son has 91 cav z24 3.1 5 speed, bought a wrecked 03 Montana van really nice 3.4 this is a doable swap correct? Run the 91 computer keep the 3.4 intake injectors?

[@modeverything1]

Yes it will run on the stock computer with the stock 3.1 injectors, but you will see better results with the 3400 injectors and a custom tuned chip or stand alone ecm.

[@AndrewMiller-vb9sx]

@ awesome thanks for the info! we’re in the middle of freshening up the motor just a re seal timing chain and once the snow hits here in Saskatchewan pull in the shop play around over winter ❄️

[@kongsgarage7157]

turbo 455!!!! the people demand it!!!!! That's me... im the people.

[@modeverything1]

LMAO 🤣🤣🤣 hey if we ever get to 100k +subs that would be something to build! But it won't be fwd then! Lol

[@rumblertag1419]

Now time to drop one of these modes 3400 in a Venture or Montana

[@modeverything1]

I would like to do a 3500 or 3900 one day if I could find a van that's not completely rotted out lol

[@rumblertag1419]

@@modeverything1 yeah the rocker panels are always the first to go other than that the ones where I’m at(Missouri) are pretty clean

[@keithrussell2307]

Do u build the harmonic adapter for the ignition system for the 3.5 lx9

[@modeverything1]

I had a couple made up for myself, but I am going to try to get some more done later this year!

[@JefeLTX]

Sick!!!🔥🔥

[@rumblertag1419]

Where do you find rebuilding specs for the 3400

[@modeverything1]

They used to be posted on 60degreev6.com but I'm not sure if they are still there. Haynes manuals will have them, or Most Automotive shops should be able to print them for you!

[@cagneywomack321]

What the best cam to put in a 93 camaro 3400 v6 with out changeing a lot just for street car to have a little fun with

[@modeverything1]

Depending on what cam you go with you most likely will need upgraded valve springs. Is the rest of the engine stock? Headers? TB? if it is mostly stock I would not go too crazy. Might be worth a call to someone like delta cams, they would be able to tell you, or even custom grind on for you!

[@brokeboysent3307]

How amazing bro ! And by time somome reply’s to comments bro I been trying to built my 3.4 05 impala how can I get in better contact with you so you can lead me the right way with what should be done

[@modeverything1]

Send me an email [e-mail] or on Instagram @mod__everything and I will try to help you out!

[@wesv6037]

I have a 1987 Cavalier RS soft top, I was see where to start at swapping the 2.8 with something fun like 250-300 HP range, where do I start ? I know nothing 😅 just a old ass car 😂

[@modeverything1]

3400 swap is probably the best place to start. There should still be a swap guide on v6z24.com I would recommend Reading over that first then work on upgrading the engine.

[@Tarzanifree]

I work on cars and such but im new to modifying cars. I have a 3.4 Alero i was wondering if i can add a different header with more valves ???

[@modeverything1]

You can change to 3500 heads and intake manifolds, they flow more air wich results in more power! Or you can upgrade the valves in your 3400 heads with valves from the LX9 3500. I would start with some simpler things like a larger throttle body or a less restrictive exhaust system!

[@riders400ex]

i have 3.4 and looking to swap top end 3.5 , The lower intake are same 3.4 and 3.5? Or need both intake from 3.5? And need 3.5 injector to run that ? Or 3.4 thankss🤞

[@modeverything1]

You will need the 3.5 lower intake manifold to match due to the ports being in a different location on the heads. Upper intake is interchangeable as far as bolting on. Use the 3.4 fuel rail and injectors, the 3500 is a return less fuel system.

[@riders400ex]

@@modeverything1 thanks appriciate , and is more performance 3.5 head or is possible to make same with the uper and lower intake and porting my 3.4 head

[@modeverything1]

Stock 3500 head vs ported 3400 head, the ported 3400 would make more power when done correctly. I would like to do some more testing one day to confirm the power gains from 3500 top end.

[@nikkocavalier8479]

Hi... i have a cavalier z24 V6 3400

[@modeverything1]

Nice! Any mods?

[@nikkocavalier8479]

@@modeverything1 yes... my engine have a LS3 yellow spring valve, 800cc injector, Aeromotive fuel pressure, 3 inch air cold intake, 2.5 exhaust pipe, ac eliminate, power steering eliminate and other stuff

[@rileydrabek6795]

Back cut the valves on the heads too

[@gtaashwagandhaman7551]

Yeah I got somebody building me a 3500 with + 300hp but it's been just over 3 years... too good to be true

[@modeverything1]

Is it a company building it for you? If so I may have an idea wich one lol

[@gtaashwagandhaman7551]

@@modeverything1 YEAH who?!😏

[@hoover274able]

Hey is there anything that I can do to get more power out of my 2005 Buick Century 3100?

[@modeverything1]

There is quite a bit that can be done. it all depends on what your budget is! A larger Throttle body and a PCM tune are a great start, and make the car nicer to drive!

[@hoover274able]

@@modeverything1 Hey I’m going to the junkyard in the morning and getting the whole intake off an 3400 💪🏿💪🏿💪🏿

[@modeverything1]

@hoover274able no need for the whole intake. Just get the throttle body and you will be good!

[@bucky14b]

You seem like the guy to ask. I eliminate all wiring and only use coils and crank sensor, does the timing still advance? And can you tell me what distributor I can use that has a vacuum advance?

[@modeverything1]

Not 100% sure but I'm going to say no the timing will not advance. I take it your trying to run a carb for a demo derby car? The older 2.8 fire birds/Camaro's/s10's used a distributor but Im not sure if the carb ones used vac advance. If you did run the distributor on a 3400 you would have to clearance the upper and lower intakes. (Cut/weld)

[@bucky14b]

@@modeverything1 yes carb conversion on a derby car. I've done it a couple times and they run too good for it to not be advancing. I was just curious what actually controls it. As far as the intake I modify and weld the intakes already. Was just curious if you knew of any distributor that would work even if it had to be modified a little

[@pyschreaper8605]

where’d you get all the parts to do this

[@modeverything1]

The pistons, and camshaft where purchased from wot-tech. The 3500 heads going on it I did the porting work on.

[@unluckiestnumber7172]

what did you mod the pcm with? do you have any bin files?

[@modeverything1]

It will be using HPtuners for now. I think that it will need an aftermarket ecm to get the most out of it.

[@loganbleick3509]

How is this motor on gas

[@modeverything1]

I think it will be good on the highway but probably use a bit more in town.

[@kevinjohnson9372]

Do u have a way to chat threw email I'm gonna help a friend mod his 04 monte Carlo 3400 and is the manifolds and plenum swap a good choice

[@modeverything1]

Sure! [e-mail]

[@jonathanchestnutt9248]

How soon we will see part2

[@modeverything1]

Probably in about a month or so. Have to get some more work done on the other projects first!

[@boosted0079]

That's a little unrealistic NA. The highest horse power na 3800 build was 247hp at the wheels, and that was an all out sponsored build. I mean maybe at the crank? If that's what you're looking for. That would still translate to about 260 at the wheels

[@modeverything1]

Wow I thought that the N/A 3800 record would have been over 300whp by now! The highest N/A 3400/3500 sofar was a SBE 3500 with a cam, home ported heads/intakes, home built headers and it put down 275whp over 10 years ago lol We are going for 300 crank hp on this build!

[@boosted0079]

@@modeverything1 got a link to this 275 "wheel horse power" 3400? That just seems unrealistic as well. I'm just not believing that's even possible without seeing the dyno sheet. Warshike had a 3800 that was an all out custom build running in E85 with 11:1 compression that ran 247 on a dyno. That's The build I'm talking about and it's available to see for proof. Holds the record.

[@modeverything1]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/rHTHg36sgtGgmc0 it's a 3500 (larger bore than the 3400) he pulled the engine and put it in a 3rd gen Camaro with a auto and the power dropped to around 260whp iirc. The 3400/3500s have much better flowing heads than the 3800's and with the right parts you can spin them 7000rpm + no problem. They are very overlooked engines!

[@DATSUN72067]

Is that a chevy 2.8L v6

[@modeverything1]

It's a 3400, without heads on they look very similar to a 2.8v6 at a glance! Unless you can see a 3.1 v6 in the background 😄

[@DATSUN72067]

My friend has a 1985 2.8L v6 38,000 came out of a blazer s10 $300 thinking about buying it making around 230hp

[@sappyse107]

Not enough cam for your goal.

[@modeverything1]

Going to see what we can get with the stuff we have before we change anything. There are a few other things that I feel will also hold it back.

[@engineerisengihere44]

What ever happened to this build?

[@modeverything1]

Just got the heads back from the machine shop, now working on making some room in my garage so I can start assembling it!

[@52BuickBoi]

I hope that engine build works for you. Them stock 3400 motors were trash. My dad bought me an 04 monte carlo I got about 5 years out of it it uses and leak more and more oil as time went on. It's going to scrap. Stay away from the 3400s. 3800s are the best. That's my advice to people when they consider buying a good used GM car.

[@modeverything1]

3800s leak oil too, as do most engines that are 20+ years old. I would take a 3400 over a 3800 all day.

[@52BuickBoi]

@modeverything1 all depends on how you take care of them too and keep the oil changed. Most common reasons why oil leaks especially on 20+year old cars is the oil pressure sensor and rear main seal goes bad.

[@curvs4me]

Any update on the build?

[@modeverything1]

Right now he is getting the brake lines done, and the front subframe replaced. I should be starting on the car in April or may, but I should be getting back to the engine in March!

[@curvs4me]

@@modeverything1 nice 👍🏼

[@mycyclingobsession7002]

Any updates on this build??

[@modeverything1]

I will be getting back to this sometime this summer, just had some other projects that need finished first!