GM Made the Coyote Engine Before Ford Did?? - The V8 Version of the Vortec 4200

Today we introduce a Cadillac Northstar LH2 Engine to the Channel. Is this the GM version of the Coyote Engine?
T-Shirts: www.paccracing.com/store

[@make-it-work4u]

Eagle has forged h beam rods for $650 Its cheap insurance so you don't window the block and you will also be able to let her really shine under boost..

[@pushplay4me]

Have a lot of experience with Cadillac Northstar engines from the time I worked at the dealer. The oil distribution plate that you pulled off is the main source of oil leaks. Using Pirma Tex, right stuff on the outer perimeter seal will help that a lot. Use an impact to remove the main bolts instead of a breaker bar you’ll break less of them. The last generation of Northstar engines was really great ran really strong. The Northstar engine had some popularity in the Sandrail world for a brief time might still be some performance parts out there.

[@dougmedeiros8862]

Thanks for sharing , I was out by the time they came out.

[@dougmedeiros8862]

I heard of a car running on the Salt that was fast with not a lot of work done

[@ericmartin2470]

what is the difficulty level, in your opinion, to rebuild a Northstar LH2 on a scale from 1 to 10.

[@Calvin-Nelson]

Thanks so much for the comment. I will be taking all of this advice!

[@pushplay4me]

@@ericmartin2470 if you’re a modern engine mechanic, not particularly hard, probably 5 or 6 middle of the road there’s nothing uniquely special about it. The later versions got much easier to work on than the early versions like in the El Dorado, Deville, Seville. There was a lot of stupid stuff on those.

[@Qnickel27]

Super excited for this build series! As a 57 Bel Air owner myself my vote has to be for putting it in your 57!

[@SloppyMechanics]

the gm parts crossover archeology never ceases to amaze

[@brianstough5286]

and, somehow they can do it WITHOUT making an oil change a nightmare (oil on suspension components - STOCK)

[@highbrass7563]

Yep

[@dougmedeiros8862]

That is why I own 4 of them Cadillac powered Riviera and 67C 20

[@_..-.._..-.._]

It seems like common sense to me🤷 that’s why I was born into a ford family and went to Chevy the second I started having to fix them. Why Ford has to design so many things from scratch is beyond me, they seem to like spending R&D money, let’s make a new bellhousing pattern for each engine and share zero info with the guy designing the body and the guys designing other engines. They finally went modular with the 4.6/5.4 but even those have a ton of different parts.

[@_..-.._..-.._]

Are you complimenting Nivlac for finding out these things or GM for being smart enough to share engineering and make things simpler? Either way I agree 😂

[@cb84capri]

My vote is to put it into the Fairmont, and race it.

[@cb84capri]

"What's under the hood?" Opens hood, "It's just a 4.6."

[@aussieausdeutschland4245]

Better still, a Barra. Fairmonts had em, just not the shitty fox body ones.... you know those Kangaroo chasing ones

[@rodneybyrd9516]

NICE teardown analysis!! As a Chrysler tech in the '80s and '90s, even with our K-cars we used to laugh at the Cadillac 4100s and later 4.5/4.9 versions. The Quad4 and Northstar/Aurora (4.6/4.0) engines started to get our attention, for power output anyway. Those first few Quads with 5spd manuals were really little rockets! Then they detuned them (warranty concerns I'm thinking), and they were still high output per liter, but not such a big deal. Your work with the 4200 Vortec has really impressed me, and I'm sure you'll master the Northstar V8 as well. Put it in the Fairmont and blow all the minds you can!!

[@allenl9031]

One of the reasons the Quad 4 got derated, is when they added a balance shaft system. My first gen was indeed a rocket in the mid range.

[@rodneybyrd9516]

@@allenl9031 I remember driving a 1988 Cutlass Calais 5spd and being really impressed. Then in the mid '90s my (now ex-)wife wanted a sporty car and we went and looked at Sunfire Pontiacs. I was excited to see the Quad available in the "GT" model, but it was lackluster. We ended up getting her a well maintained, used, Dodge Stealth instead.

[@rosscullen531]

​@@rodneybyrd9516I absolutely lov the cutlass Calais quad 4. My uncle worked for Oldsmobile and gm for over 40 years and I remember him telling me about how great the Calais is and the quad 4. I got to see the Olds Aurora engine before it came out in production. Basically a 4.0 Northstar

[@BruceLee-xn3nn]

What was it about Chrysler turbo cars back then? I never knew anyone that could keep one running. My neighbor had a brand new turbo Dodge Colt and it stayed broke.

[@rodneybyrd9516]

@@BruceLee-xn3nn A Colt is technically a Mitsubishi product, evolving into the successful Eclipse/Talon twins, but the domestic turbos were pretty good. The 2.2L cars (even non-turbo) had head gasket problems, leaking externally mostly. The main problem we saw at the dealership level was vacuum leaks at the plastic vacuum harness which ran behind the valve cover, right over the exhaust/turbo heat. We kept the plastic harness and all the rubber elbows in stock and it was usually an easy fix. Replaced a few bad wastegate solenoids (ask a Grand National owner about his) and a few oil/coolant feed hoses over the years.

[@Paul_D_Lashley]

I built a 66 mustang with a north star engine and a 5 speed years ago. They make performance parts for them now and they are pretty popular in dune buggies. They sound awesome and have a smooth torque curve. I’d love to do another one and twin turbo it.

[@manofchaitea6904]

Why not a superior 4.6 4V from a Ford? The cobra motor was far superior, produced better horsepower and far more reliable. Also cheaper and easier to find.

[@Paul_D_Lashley]

Because. Why ask why. I had them both and all the parts plus it was cool. I’d definitely do another one but I’m LS swapping my 65 fastback at the moment. I know everyone loves to get their feelings hurt about the LS engines but I really don’t care and it’s a better designed Windsor anyway.

[@davidanderson2393]

I had almost completely forgotten about the Northstar engines until a while back seeing the Car Wizard channel pulling a Northstar apart and making some improvements for reliability. I was surprised to see someone was making stud kits and other bits to help make them live a more trouble free life, can't wait to see what you come with on this V8 platform.

[@mpetersen6]

I would have thought GM could have figured the stud issue out early on. And put a closed deck on it. Or is it the close bore spacing. The Chrysler 2.7 and 3.5 had closed decks with the cylinder liners cast in. But those two engines have a much wider bore spacing same as the Hemi l think. No ten thou less, 4.450" versus 4.0157" on the Northstar.

[@nas8326]

It's car wizards cousin they love those north stars

[@awaren8375]

Wizard?you mean he will actually work on something? Seems like he always says it was to dirty or to old and not worth fixing, really curious if he's ever spent any actual time twisting wrenches in reality,not just making videos,but I guess if your a wizard...

[@slowstang88]

​@@awaren8375yeah he's ate up for sure

[@steverebuilds152]

The best improvement for reliability of this engine. Quite complicated. Custom aftermarket intake with a redesign without the under mount starter

[@Skwisgar2322]

People forget that a modified version of the N*/Aurora engine was used in the Indy Racing League. Granted, it was pretty heavily modified, but it was the same architecture.

[@billfog393]

I watched em race

[@LionsTigersBears]

When cadillac used to race those flat looking race cars they used the northstar built to the hilt ran them hard and fast.

[@Skwisgar2322]

@@LionsTigersBears Le Mans Prototypes, yeah, I had forgotten about those.

[@Iamthestig42069]

Both the lemans and Indycar engines were based on the 4.0 liter version so technically they are both “Aurora” engines

[@JsliceQB1026]

I sure hope it didn't have an internal head gasket leak due to tty head bolts that pull out the threads due to them Not being coarse thread bolts. Either way long story short unless you use the North Star performance headstud kit, dont do it. The motor is only worth it If you choose to use the kit to drill and tap out the headstuds to Ls7 size bolts.

[@rogerf7265]

Actually Ford came out with the 4.6L OHC 16V Modular engine in 1991 with the 32V coming two years later in the Lincoln Mk VIII. With that aside I have seen the Northstar swapped into both the MR2 and Fiero. I've been mostly a Ford guy during my life but have also owned Chevy and Mopar. At one point I had all three at the same time and I know from experience that parts for the Ford and Mopar were roughly double what the same thing for the Chevy cost. That's because unlike Ford and Mopar, Chevy put the SBC in all of its iterations in millions of vehicles from 1955 until the release of the LS. That economy of scale made parts cheap and led to the development of massive aftermarket support. While there is a large amount of aftermarket support for the others it is nothing compared to the amount for the GM platforms which leads to higher prices. The Coyote unfortunately has been shown to be a very capable platform which due to the somewhat limited availability has driven the prices up. I really enjoy seeing you make power with engines that aren't the norm. Anybody can swap an LS into a Fox body and make it go fast. The 4200 is what brought me to your channel and I'm really looking forward to seeing what you can accomplish with the Northstar.

[@captainchicken8983]

Those "InTech" modulars that came in the Lincolns have a lot of potential from the factory, block and crank are good for 1000 horse, and have six main cap bolts with heat treated aluminum block made in fiats teksid plant, only main weak points are cooling, and connecting rods

[@mpetersen6]

I worked with a guy whose nephew put a 4.2 into a 37 Chevy. When asked why uis reply was "any idiot can stick an LS in".

[@brianstough5286]

@@captainchicken8983 and, as stated over and over and over, the COST of hot-rodding a ford is usually (at least) double the COST of hot-rodding a GM

[@captainchicken8983]

@@brianstough5286 indeed, those connecting rods and pistons are each over a band a set lol

[@rogerf7265]

@@brianstough5286 that's a lesson that I learned first hand.

[@assaultlick2169]

Really enjoying your content on lessee known domestic engines. This is quickly becoming one of my favorite channels. Great work, Calvin !

[@mattbrady2160]

Very excited for this. In the late 90s these got a little bit of attention for their 8500-rpm potential but then LS happened and these weren't worth the effort. In the meantime GM fixed the old Northstar issues, paired them with rwd 6l80e's, people figured out how to make SBE engines live at insane power levels, and the Cadillacs that got these engines depreciated to scrap prices. Perfect setup for some good, cheap fun!

[@theoriginalpauly]

The LS headed off so much innovation, just because it's so bloody good at being basic AF. 😂

[@steverebuilds152]

The reason for the Cadillacs being reduced to scrap prices was the FWD setup with a starter that was mounted under the intake and got hot and failed. To replace it.... It cost less for insurance to total these vehicles after GM purposefully voided warranties on all these cars to avoid recalls

[@mattbrady2160]

@@steverebuilds152 RWD SRX-es and STS- es are also basically scrap prices now too.

[@steverebuilds152]

@@mattbrady2160 yea well the undermount intake starter was put in those too.

[@xxxxxxxxxx6903]

​@@steverebuilds152- Yes, thank you! Between the porosity of the blocks/heads, the short life transmissions, and having to remove half a days worth of parts to R&R the starter-motor. That's a hard NO for me! 💩💩💩

[@marcust510]

Became a fan of the Northstar/Aurora engines when I stumbled across some old IMSA racing footage from the early 90s a while back. There were so many manufacturers apart of it, but one that stuck out (& kind of blew my mind) was the Oldsmobile running in the series AND with the Cutlass of all things. It was racing with the Northstar/Aurora engine under the hood. Pulling 9000+ rpm & I think the power was in the 600 range (going off of memory so I could be wrong about that horsepower number). Knowing the reputation of these engines I was shocked to see they had a racing program!

[@dougmedeiros8862]

Really put together

[@dougmedeiros8862]

Not bad for 4.0 and 4.6

[@stevemacdaddy9909]

Definitely the small car with the toll cage. Small cars and big motors are what I like.

[@Emilthehun]

Finally someone who builds a northstar!!! I can't wait! There used to be a company who offered head work port polish on these and promised 75hp+

[@douglasfrompa593]

my vote would be for the "off the rails" approach. I could see this paired with a light chassis. Something from the 80's or maybe the 90's maybe. It would be REALLY INSANE to make it all wheel drive, but still on a small chassis.

[@jakebmorgan696]

Like a Fiat 500?

[@rosscullen531]

Great video Calvin! This is really working for you to spin off into these informative videos because people want to see and hear more from you. I love this channel and I think a lot of people feel the same way.

[@normansanchez8730]

Never seen that motor open before... very impressive engineering. I can see you making more than a thousand horses with the right prep work.

[@donaldgminski8621]

Anyone who's owned one, or worked at an auto shop has seen one opened....

[@normansanchez8730]

@@donaldgminski8621 looks like a really good platform to make some power. Since he got the later version.

[@pattman96]

Back at my dad's muffler shop, a lot of Cadillac's with the North star motor's for exhaust work on the daily. Had one guy want to straight pipe both rear muffler and the converter. Swear on this day one of the best sounding v8's. Excited for what you do with this build!!!!!!!!!🎉

[@Levibetz]

That oil system is INCREDIBLE! I've never seen mains passages that were actually shaped to aid flow. Usually it's a bunch of straight drilled holes at 90deg angles flowing off hopes and dreams. Don't forget, they raced the 4.0l Aurora version of this engine at Indy. I don't know how similar the Indy version is, but I could see that high quality oil system really helping it endure and handle the rpms necessary (probably 10k?)

[@goosenotmaverick1156]

I always heard a rumor that the Northstar was theoretically designed as a racing engine and then redesigned for road car use, I don't think that's a true thing, but I have heard it multiple times from multiple sources at Cadillac dealerships. Still fairly certain that's not how it went, but I always thought it was a funny backstory for an engine in granny's car.

[@steverebuilds152]

Well this engine failed because of horrible engineering. Mounting the starter underneath the intake was HORRIFIC. GM voided warranties on these cars so insurance would total them when starters failed. It was an endless money pit for gm

[@Levibetz]

@@steverebuilds152 Starter under the intake is a very normal thing on DOHC V8s, the Toyota 1UZ is the same way and legendary in reliability. Way easier to change on a transverse car than screwing around underneath most likely. But yeah a timing belt V8 transverse is not something GM dealers were used to dealing with yet.

[@Davesworld7]

@@steverebuilds152 Let's see what you have engineered. The common points of failure are correctable on this engine and I see amazing engineering at every point, the exceptional attention to mains oiling passages is most impressive. I'm a Ford guy but I really like this engine as well as the new Gemini engine on the Corvette except I am not a fan of flat cranks which is why they limited the displacement to 5.5 liters. These two engines have something in common with the Porsche 928 engine, an upper and lower block and bottom-end stability. I call bullshit on GM voiding warranties, even the most suicidal automaker would never want their cars being totaled over one part. I never in my life saw any cars with this engine that had a salvage title and just needed a starter. You also are not giving insurance companies any credit. Nobody would declare a total loss over a warranty and a starter.

[@stephenhood2948]

Northstars are great motors when they are working correctly. Keeping them in this state is the tricky part. I'm really interested in seeing where this setup goes, especially after seeing what you have done with the 4200s. Great video!!

[@PJHOOKA]

I knew this was coming! Great to see you guys going a different path.

[@jqureshi4943]

For the open deck, devcon is a budget alternative that can be used to close it up. The Boostedboiz have used this process a couple times, if I recall correctly.

[@shaadydog1]

Why use Devcon when you got stuff like Hardblok or Embecco 885 that are machinable, and you can still use the sugar method… or could just weld aluminum support blocks in place?

[@jqureshi4943]

@@shaadydog1 devcon is just what I have seen used, I'm sure those you listed are viable options as well

[@ls_812]

I was trying to remember what that stuff was called.

[@Deadpool-ODST]

@@shaadydog1 I was just thinking this as well. Welding would definitely be a viable option.

[@hotironforge1385]

I was on the tail end of working on those engines in cars professionally. The two biggest complaints I can think of were they leaked every fluid in them and the chassis’s they were put in made them pretty hard to work on due to no space. I actually kinda liked them quite a bit though. They are pretty cool little v8’s

[@Low760]

I liked the idea of the Northstar when I was younger, but the issues with the Northstar seem to be sealing issues, only commenting at the start of the video of course. And you've covered it quickly. Edit: one of the first alloy engine? The vega in the 70s and the Buick 215 in the 60s? The 1uz cost $1b to design so the Northstar was no doubt done on a budget compared to that. Exciting stuff!

[@Jackmerius_Tacktheretrix]

@Low760 that 215 buick engine became the Rover V8 after Land Rover bought thw rights and tooling to that engine. It was used all the way up to the 2004 Land Rover Discovery II. Started as a 3.5 then punched to a 4.0, and finally to a 4.6 in the P38 Range Rover and the 03-04 Discovery II.

[@scrappy7571]

Olds and Buick both had a alloy V8 in the early 60's. Both were unreliable turds.

[@leecline5759]

​@@scrappy7571wrong.

[@dionrau5580]

The 4.9 pushrod caddy was aluminum block and iron head's, they came a long way from the h t 4100, the one in my coupe DeVille is a good runner but then they ditched em for the Northstar, went through all the stuff again and quit on them just when they were getting good. GM....

[@martymiller4300]

The Saturn 1.9 both SOHC and DOHC were aluminum block and heads. Had a reputation for oil consumption but also slotted into the cheap car category where maintenance is rare. Also the cars were so bad that the engines never had a chance to prove or disprove longevity.thanks for this video I’ve had 2 Northstars (still have an ‘02 Eldorado) and a 4.2 Olds Bravada. Never occurred to me how similar they are, I’ve always revered the Northstar and loathed the 4.2.

[@DrFiero]

I have the FWD variation of this in my '01 Seville STS. And another one sitting on the ground attached to a 4T80 getting ready to go into a modded '87 Fiero. I'll probably do the NorthStar Performance head stud mod on that one since it 100% will not be driven gently!

[@shadowopsairman1583]

Do it for sure

[@NDC1115]

Northstar in a Fiero will be a screamer!

[@kskip4242]

He'll ya brother! 😊🤘

[@whipplecreekracing]

Put that Northstar in the Talon! Thanks for the breakdown, and inspection of the Northstar. It was very educational

[@bradleypark1936]

Thanks Cal. I enjoyed this one, as always. There is definitely something therapeutic (for me at least..) about watching an engine disassembly with knowledgeable commentary. Cheers.

[@kevinengland4042]

120% vote for the Fairmont N* combo......with a 76mm turbo! It also needs reground cams for a 7500-8000 rpm redline

[@stevec5280]

It is possible to close the deck. If you REALLY wanted to. Also, I say go COMPLETELY off the rails an put it in a 32 Ford hotrod. Like Milners car from American Graffiti

[@BlaserBuilds]

Love everything about this. Very cool.

[@catsaregovernmentspies]

I had a 99 Cadillac SLS that I had to do head gaskets on. What a nightmare. The engine ran like a dream, though. Looking forward to seeing what you can get for power out of this engine. 💪

[@robertjohnson4784]

Would love to see a Turbo charge Northstar My my vote is the Fairmont. I think it would be stupid crazy.

[@stuffandjunkandthings364]

i vote for "off the rails". Some of the lower end parts (separator plate) is, as far as I know, unobtainium. might have to try and find another solution for that one. Another GM engine of the era that people overlook is the 3900v6 (LZ9). Has VVT (albeit just one for everything), LS sized bore (3.9 bore), pretty good cylinder heads (280cfm) and are pretty plentiful in scrapyards.

[@SoI_Badguy]

Wow, that is a pretty huge bore for a v6.

[@ErikHenrichsen]

@@SoI_Badguy The Chevy 4.3 (262) V-6 has a 4" bore. And GMC made a 305 cubic in V-6 with a 4.25" bore. GMC made quite a few large displacement V-6 engines over the years, some with bores exceeding 5" diameter.

[@RobZombahr]

I’m a Honda guy. But i love watching your stuff. If the open deck proves to be an issue on the Northstar, I’m sure a block guard could be machined pretty easily. Definitely helps the Honda B/H series guys out with bore rigidity. I’m sure it would do the same for you

[@goosenotmaverick1156]

True but I've seen block guards (mostly the cheap stuff, why do people skimp on parts inside an engine?) Cause overheating issues under high loads and high rpm too, my understanding is CSS I think is the only brand that is proven so far not to cause that, at least in D stuff, but seeing as you didn't note D along with B and H I assume youre not a fan of the single jingles lol

[@DrewLSsix]

​@goosenotmaverick1156 studding is a cheaper easier option that doesn't have cooling issues.

[@goosenotmaverick1156]

@@DrewLSsix agreed, my point was merely to point out the fact that Northstar are already prone to overheating and adding something that will increase those chances feels like a bad idea

[@goosenotmaverick1156]

@@DrewLSsix so, I guess what I was trying to say is... Duh, tell me something I don't already know, I was obviously trying to point out the flawed logic.

[@stellingbanjodude]

Working at Various GM dealerships thru the years, I was always impressed with how these things ran. I remember selling many thread-serts on the earlier models, not so much on the later ones.

[@RandomDude989]

And a company called Northstar Peformance makes an awesome Stud Kit for this engine to drill/tap and fix the issues with all Northstar Engines.

[@shadowopsairman1583]

I was thinking a helicoil would help as well. Aviation use them for aluminum parts which increases strength and metal compatibility since bolts are a certain grade of steel

[@bvward]

Calvin, put it in the '57 for GM-ness! Have you looked at the Toyota UZ family of quad-cam V8's? Popular swap in Australia and NZ for off-road trucks and performance vehicles...

[@JSCB-365]

I really dig this type of build. Taking something that's under rated in the public opinion category then build it into what its potential allows. This is a great way to get something Fast for Cheap.

[@911delorean]

Looks like Northstar Performance has a couple goodies on their site. MLS head gaskets, main and head stud kits, upgraded cams and rods.

[@PullStartStables]

Always thinking, always innovating! Awesome!

[@Calvin-Nelson]

Can't stop, won't stop!

[@troubled81]

I highly recommend you check out the 3.9l to 5.0l jag motor. It ran in trans-am with ported stock heads and make 700hp naturally aspirated in the early 2000s.

[@shadowopsairman1583]

Not common parts wise, just like the Ford Barra. Heck SB 2 Heads work on a G1 SBC.

[@troubled81]

@@shadowopsairman1583 it was also used in the Thunderbird and Lincoln LS. As an added bonus fact they were cast in Windsor Ontario using the Cosworth process.

[@bleachstain9785]

I had one in a Lincoln LS, the weak point with those was the timing chain. Mine snapped just shy of 150 and sent a piston flying through the hood when it all let loose.

[@badgermetal]

Love these teardown videos. Those oil passages look nice to clean and inspect being that big and wide open. Very interesting design. The prices on ebay look good compared to other engines with the same tech and half the cylinders.

[@929cosmodude]

i love the way you look for unpopular engines that have huge potential, i have one for you, a 6 cyl twin cam engine, cheap and available worldwide, very similar rods to the 4200 but with a shorter stroke , same diameter pistons and crank as well, and a gm engine with the same trigger pattern as well. 6VE1

[@overlybuilt5110]

Love all the content and all the obscure, dare to be different paths!! In our shop it’s much of the same, oddball combos are always more interesting. We are HUGE fans of propane power. Would you be able to dive a little deeper into the option of deleting the VVT in a follow up video? I’d like to try running this with an LS MSD6014 box, turbo/propane.

[@michaelblacktree]

Most of the Northstar engines don't have VVT. So you could just use one of those.

[@simontaylor6718]

Propane👍

[@13_13k]

Way back in the early 1980s one of my older sisters dated a guy who had a '79 or '80 Chevy short bed 4x4 that ran dual fuel, gasoline and it had a big propane tank in the bed. I was only about 14 years old and just getting into cars and I always thought propane was a great alternative to gas especially if you could run dual fuel system.

[@randallmason9687]

There was a Guy in PA that was building Northstar engines, and using them in 32 Fords. If I remember correctly, He claimed 500 hp. It may be worth a Google search.

[@brianstough5286]

anything is better in a 32 ford than a ford engine!

[@randallmason9687]

Look out! Shots fired! I have a Chevy, a Ford, and a Dodge. All have over 200,000 miles!

[@TailoredChassisSolutions]

Im glad this is getting attention, I went down a rabbit hole on this engine a few months ago out of curiosity for a cheap 4cam v8 alternative to current options. Looking forward to seeing what you do with it! VTC, modern port flow, simple timing set. Love it

[@parkeraskew]

I know a dude with a later northstar v8 engine that has 500,000 miles on it and climbing (Highway), because it is bulletproof. I always thought he just got lucky, but this helps explain a lot about its life, as well as his common and early fluid and spark plug services.

[@600wheel]

I remember when that motor came out Hot Rod people were creaming their pants this thing was labelled as the next Chevy 350, the next motor you’re going to see in every Hot Rod, the word Northstar was plastered across the front of every magazine related to cars

[@shadowopsairman1583]

If they had addressed hydrogen embrittlement and head gasket troubles early enough by recalling the engines, it might have been a viable choice along with the Gen 2 LT5.

[@GoddessOfMisfortune]

3rd option, but retain the stock body on it, for that sleeper look (Lots of turbo noise, but a rumble behind it)

[@Slider68]

Back in the mid to late 90's and early 2000's I used to regularly drive 10 hours to work in another city for a week at a time. Because I had to bring equipment that couldn't be flown, I'd always rent an STS or DTS (preferred the STS with the high output ~300hp) for the trip with Northstar engines. In total I must have put on around 100,000 miles on dozens of different Northstar engines. Only once did I have any issues, and that was a blown lower radiator hose. Instead of doing the right thing and getting towed immediately, I just kept driving (with the ac on) through the night because I was aware of the Northstar's ability to drive without coolant. It did lose more 1/2 its power, but it never failed and once the hose was replaced the next day the engine was back to 100%. One time I was lucky enough to find an STS-V available. That thing was incredible, with its ~470 HP. I've always felt the Northstar got an unfair bad reputation. Those engines run very well, get decent fuel economy, produce lots of power, and are very responsive to throttle changes.

[@Nobody913.]

First video I have seen of yours and man you have my attention!

[@banneddamn]

Or...... you could use a ford 4.6 4v. Which is better in every conceivable way. Reliable. Proven to be able to make as much power as you'd want.... and will straight bolt in to a Fairmont with the right combo of oem parts.

[@randomdude4669]

This dude doesn't seem fond of ford engines 😂

[@damons6759]

Also comparing it to a Honda K series is a joke. Look at the ports and CFM flow compared to a K series.

[@Underpantsniper]

A lot of the honda guys use an epoxy filling around the cylinders to make the k series a "closed" deck on higher boost applications.

[@aeroflopper]

im sure they put concrete in volvo blocks

[@ronaldfarmer1208]

I'm impressed to say the least. Will definately be checking back.

[@HaefentheZebra]

It'd be fun to see this in something super niche like a Cadillac Allanté. Talk about an upgrade!

[@GrandPitoVic]

It's funny. Before I even found your channel or even thought about swapping in a Amera Barra, I saw one and thought " I bet that would be a bad azz American 2Jz with boost. 10 years later I found your channel lol. Funny how the world turns. I really enjoy your channel and content brother. Very informative. Piss off the purists anyways lol.

[@hoost3056]

Oh Lord, prices are about to go up😅

[@Calvin-Nelson]

This one, I might actually agree on that.

[@kylecurry6841]

You know this engine family has Indy racing heritage (Oldsmobile Aurora)... Makes sense why it shares commonalities with Honda motors.

[@Ellington_Industrial_Arts]

Can't wait to see what you do with the Northstar. This should be epic!

[@andrewknowles3745]

The sealing passages on the girdle have me worried. That looks like an easy way to lose oil pressure on an older engine. It's like the LS barbell & cam cover on steroids

[@brandonharris6623]

Put it in the Tallon/eclipse. That would be cool

[@ChrisHarding-lk3jj]

Megasquirt works excellent with Northstar engines and back in my sand rail days I setup many Northstar engines with megasquirt. I was swapping atlas engines into land cruisers back in 2002.

[@cheynsanders5506]

Chevy actually did it a few times. The Northstar is a good example but so too is the original LT5 in the C4 ZR1 Corvette. Both of these engines are very interesting and don’t get near enough love, so I’m glad you’re bringing attention to them

[@mikehoncho5389]

I have a complete LT5 in my garage. I’d like to put it in something someday.

[@royb.1441]

Oh wow dude I love that you find these really interesting and unique engines and tell us what’s cool about them. I had no idea about the North Star! I also didn’t know coyotes were going for so much. I guess with the eco boost, the amount of fords with coyote engines isn’t as much as you would think vs Chevy who put the LS in everything.

[@justinhobart8747]

🤔 GM... Well, the 32 Valve DOHC LT 5 in the C4 Vett came out way before that... A North Star would be a great idea for a performance engine build... However, finding compatible aftermarket performance parts could prove challenging and a bit expensive. I would definitely recommend upgrading the rods and pistons and headstuds, which should be pretty easy to do, with as much port work as you can. They did make a supercharged version of the North Star, I'm just saying 😉 as I definitely would add some boost. You're probably going to have to get some custom cams ground or something for it as well. Also as my favorite car is a 57' Chevy.... Well, I think you know my choice. 😉👍

[@delbertmcfinklestein8576]

You are referring to the ZR1 engine and that was designed by Lotus.

[@newtonfirefly3584]

Yes there was the Aluminium LT-1 [not -5] with DOHC, 4v/c, 350 c.i., designed by an engineer from Europe for the Corvette, with excellent performance.

[@lb9gta307]

​@@delbertmcfinklestein8576Lotus was owned outright by GM at the time so the OP can call the LT5 a GM engine

[@austinhowze6280]

Ford built dohc engines in ww2

[@LEOhopeful]

Personally, I was always fascinated in the potential of the Oldsmobile Aurora 4.0 V8

[@GTsGarageTech]

I love it! I love when people build or put to test unique GM engines. Another cool one is the turbo 2.8 v6 in the 06 and up Saab 9-3 cars. There is someone on KZbin pushing 600 hp out of that engine completely stock but with exhaust manifolds and a huge turbo (e85 and fuel system of course)

[@Greaseland]

I think you could make a really cool intake for that. Like stacks. Although I know it will get a turbo.

[@IOwnCalculus]

I'm here for both the Northstar content, as well as finding out Holley has the ability to control the 6L80 via the Terminator. That potentially solves the issue of controlling the 6L on a 24x LS.

[@newtonfirefly3584]

Have You looked at FuelTech which also handles all VVT with all engines, costs less, has more advanced S/W; also HalTech, Motec ?

[@paulwindisch1423]

Northstars were not as terrible as most people think. The oiling system on them is bullet proof. I never saw one with an oiling or bearing problem. When I say never, I was a heavy engine and transmission technician at a Cadillac dealer from 2001-2012, so I had lots of experience with all the Northstar variants. The oil pump drive is pinched between a shoulder on the crank and the front crank pulley, so the bolt torque on the pulley is critical. Head gaskets on the older ones were problematic when owners didn’t maintain the cooling system. Even Dexcool was not a problem (yes, I said that) unless the cooling system was operated with low coolant for extended periods. That is when Dexcool became a “problem”. In stock form, the open deck was never an issue. They didn’t suffer from warped or cracked cylinders. As a matter of fact, I don’t remember having to replace any head gaskets on the RWD version of the Northstar. They did suffer oil leaks from the lower crank case seals, oil manifold, and oil pan, but head gaskets were more an issue on FWD transverse Northstars. To properly reseal the lower end, use the grey GM engine sealant in place of the lower crank case seals and the oil pan gasket. Also, apply a thin bead around the perimeter seal of the oil manifold. Obviously make sure all the parts are cleaned well and oil free. Get a new oil manifold, too. *Bonus info: Dexcool was actually NOT the issue for which it was blamed. There WAS an issue with the water source GM was using to mix 50/50 with the Dexcool for a period of time. This water apparently had high acidity and caused rust issues, particularly in iron block applications. Once they changed water sources, the problem was solved. GM continues to use Dexcool to this day, and it is not an issue at all.

[@andrewnelson3733]

@paulwindisch1423 Thank you for the info

[@BLACKLACDTS]

The first video I find of this channel and it right into my theory that I have been thinking about for 20 years! The NorthStar has so much potential! I have owned multiple Northstars and they are underrated. They move 4000lb cars around with ease! I have actually scared people in them. They put 4000lb Fwd sedans deep into the 14s in the 1/4 Mike in the mid 90s when Mustangs Gt’s barely ran that stock. I hope this works out because I’m here for it. NorthStar performance is working on Cams for it.

[@DaneSaysStuff]

I've always wondered about the LH2 so this will be awesome to follow! I thinking putting it into the Fairmont and getting it on the road will be the best bet to help learn about it. Then you can take that knowledge on to swapping it into something else, maybe more permanent?

[@marktilley388]

The Nissan VK56 is another you could look into as well

[@Calvin-Nelson]

I have. Looks like a great package!

[@Flitzer514]

The VK is badass, and cams and stuff are make by the aftermarket@@Calvin-Nelson

[@marktilley388]

@@Flitzer514 the bad thing is that you really don't see them at the drag strip very often. I would love to swap one into a fox body, or a s14 240sx but that would require some real chasis work to get it low enough

[@fn2s145]

​@marktilley388 helped swap a 13 with a vk, great package but it's a monster to get placed right, and low enough. Plus the starter intake thing is killing me.

[@jeremybodell3619]

That engine wants to be in the Fairmont for sure.

[@stoker20]

Great video!! I always wondered about these engines. Really looking forward to seeing what you can do with it!!!!

[@bobroberts2371]

It could be argued that the Northstar was somewhat based on ( some ) lessons learned from the mid 90's the LQ1 Twin Dual Cam 3.4 L 60* V6 found in GM W body cars.

[@kenmoule825]

A lot of people forgot about those. Mercury Marine went this direction to 60°. Most people also missed these in Lincoln around 1990 I do believe. I was a wrench back then

[@eddiereichel9354]

Worked on one of these that had vvt issues. Ordered OEM solenoids and read up in service info that ya need a special tool which I of course didn't have. I found out online ya can line em up with drill bits

[@shadowopsairman1583]

I had to do vvt on a toyota engine. Vvt is overrated.

[@zxggwrt]

Very very interesting stuff! I imagine these will continue to be popular as people discover what they can do.

[@akpatrick4137]

Ford was only one year behind North Star with the dohc 4.6 liter mod motor. Which is a very reliable engine for higher power

[@lunkydog]

Since you seem to be knowledgeable about the K model, you probably know about the upper cylinder epoxy reinforcement that's done over the sugar that's then dissolved out.

[@BEANS-O-MATICtransmissions]

That's exactly what i was gonna suggest

[@Calvin-Nelson]

Yep. I'm aware. They seem to do that for the really high HP combos. I hope to not be there with this, but we will see

[@NBC_NCO]

In the 60s, Pontiac invented a 3valve engine. GM... We can't have anything faster than a Corvette. Also, the Northstar engine originated from the indy car series.

[@michaelfuhrmann4576]

Bugatti had a limited production 3 valve engine in 1912 and a full production engine in 1924

[@NBC_NCO]

@@michaelfuhrmann4576 I didn't know that.

[@toney-2759]

There is a stud kit available to strengthen the “two piece” block. This is likely a good idea to incorporate into your build. I look forward to seeing your progress. Good luck and keep the good content coming 👍

[@Flitzer514]

This should be fun, I like the cam chain arrangement.

[@NatoriousGamePlay]

I remember doing research on this engine. Lots of it sounds good on paper. Just nobody gave it the time of day until now

[@802Garage]

I have always said the Northstar is heavily underrated. Obviously it had its issues and it's a shame it got such a bad reputation. It was GM actually making a modern V8 engine that could have moved us past the LS. Not that we don't love a good LS, but ya know. Also unfortunate most of them were longitudinal of course. If the engine had done better, that would be different too. At least we know there are plenty cheap in the junkyards!

[@mpetersen6]

DOHC 32V V-8S are impressive technology but they are freaking bulky. The major advantage with OHV V-8s or V-6s is packaging. Too bad Chrysler never put a DOHC set up on the 4.7.

[@802Garage]

@@mpetersen6 Big bois to be sure!

[@scottysgarage4393]

Still waiting for someone to come up with a rational explanation why they imagine OHC is "moving ahead". It's been around as long as pushrods, it's invariably top-heavy and pointlessly complex, all to accomplish less for more money...

[@scottysgarage4393]

@@mpetersen6 The 4.7 was a horrid enough mill without adding more parts.

[@802Garage]

@@scottysgarage4393 Depends on what you mean by less. He went over some of the advantages in the video. If what you are saying is universally true, companies would not use OHC and DOHC designed period. You know this is true because companies would never spend more money for no gain. There are off course efficiencies to keep in mind, so some changes are due to requirements, not just power, but go ask a Yamaha engineer what the point of it all is.

[@danielg1642]

Subscribed cause of this video. Can’t wait to see how it comes out. Good luck👍🏽

[@WhiteManXRP]

You are a mad scientist that should work for GM and fix the bullshit...Love it Calvin, great stuff, i wana see what you can do with it

[@laynelommen9460]

Put that thing in that little green car.. you might as go really weird on this one cal.

[@derekbennett5896]

Dude I always was impressed with the northstar, always wondered about the performance capabilities of it too. Hope you find out

[@longsleevethong1457]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/mmiToKuje9GMaa8si=rrwaT3auqZ8FZA6-

[@longsleevethong1457]

Oldsmobile raced it.

[@joeyarnold2397]

This is an eye opening video for me, good to know the later year engines are the better ones. I wont scoff at them anymore like I used to. Looks like alot of R&D went into them! On a side note I almost bought 4 of the old indy car engines from an auction november of 2022. I know one was an aurora v8 and one was a chevy with serial 032 on it, I still got screenshots from the auction. I had absolutely no use for them but they would have been cool to have! The design of those compared to a northstar arent that similar from what I can see.

[@TheycallmeRpCratchet]

I knew it was a northstar. Either that or a 90s ZR1 but that would cost more than a coyote. Love to see you build one of them I always thought they had a ton of potential. Love the content.

[@al73r]

Compound turbo setup for the next 4200!!! You could pin the open deck for added strength

[@NatoriousGamePlay]

Is pinning a good idea? I keep hearing from Subaru guys that it isn't

[@al73r]

Has been a technique for quite long time. I mean they could just close the deck as that is an option for any motor these days

[@420architecMindNDesign]

If these things didn’t leak so bad they would be pretty solid engines

[@Calvin-Nelson]

That's an easy one to fix for what I'm doing.

[@elguapo9628]

Keeping an eye on this video series! Nice!

[@jclaybaugh2]

Ohhhh I am so stoked about this Northstar business! Eagerly looking forward to see this thing under boost

[@thegrumpyoldmillennial328]

I was reading up on the flow numbers of these recently. The last iteration NS heads flow as much as the 1st gen coyotes. Personally I think you should chuck it into the fwd setup first. Just to prove that the rotting fwd caddy's all over the place are pretty capable as they are by just adding boost

[@jameshatton4405]

Front wheel drive V8 on boost 😲

[@madmod]

those transaxles die at stock power level, let alone with stome stank behind it @@jameshatton4405

[@midnight347]

​@jameshatton4405 hello torque steer

[@CLW83]

Interested to see how much power you make with it

[@virtualizeeverything]

hove not seen much from you lately glad to see you back on my feed

[@mattandres8455]

Ive got a northstar with the head stud fix done to it, just sitting around in a fwd Cadillac. I think you just inspired me to put it to use in something else. Keep these videos coming, im going to need it lol