ST215 3SGTE into ST185

[Diridius]

Was just wondering if anyone has ever done this at all as I've been offered a half cut Manual Trans version......can I use the factory ST215 ECU and loom and whatever sensors and igniters etc. to the ST185, or do I have to get an aftermarket ECU, which I can get a Haltech E8 for cheap as well.

[wagonist]

Are you aiming to use the engine & everything, or just the wiring & sensors?
Your post is a little confusing.

Stidnam is trying to do an ST215 3S-GTE into an old Celica using the factory wiring loom & ECU.
I'm not sure how far into it he has gotten.
His was also an auto halfcut, so your conversion would easier as there's no stability control or traction control or other useless stuff to try to figure out on the loom.

Anything is doable, it's just a matter of what you're willing to try as you're likely to be the first.

Pity you're in WA, I'd be interested in the remains of the halfcut

[Diridius]

Converting everything over plus the gearbox, ECU wiring loom etc. to the ST185 including the sensors.......is this worth doing or would a ST205 halfcut work better.

[The Last Streetfighter]

ST205 would give you stronger gearbox and possibly bigger front brakes.

[wagonist]

ST205 would give you stronger gearbox and possibly bigger front brakes.

Gearboxes are identical (got that checked out while mine was apart), but yes if the brakes are still attached, they are definitely better (but also doable separately).

Out of curiousity, what's the half cut worth (if you don't mind me asking)?

[Diridius]

$4000.....but probably could haggle it down to less.

[wagonist]

Too much.
ST205 halfcuts are that price.

I know that manual gearboxes are a bit of a rarity, but there was a heck of a lot more manual GTT Caldinas made than ST205s, and although they're newer, except for the extra 6kW & distributorless ignition with coil on plug, the Caldina is a lesser spec.
ie top mount air to air intercooler

[Shifty]

Jeezus, $4k is a lot. I paid under $1500 for a motor/box/all accessories....

[Diridius]

Yes well thats what I was thinking.....unfortunately being here in Perth there aren't alot of Half Cut places here and the one that have them charge heaps....sigh.

[wagonist]

for <$4k, you find could find one over here & have it shipped.