Last November I finally bought an HHR SS after driving my HHR LT 2.4 manual and just dreaming of more power. Shortly after the turbo goes out and the motor seized from no oil. I was crushed. I then began researching and took on the task of the LDK swap! After 6 months it finally runs again and I am 300 miles into the brake in procedure with comps cams break in oil! I'm so excited to have my SS BACK ON THE ROAD!

 

Congrats on completing your swap!

Any thoughts on comparing the LNF to the LDK?

Does one feel better/different than the other?

 

Probably can't tell much yet, he's still in the break-in period.

 

Exactly, can't tell much right now. I'm staying out of boost and not Going past 3k rpm. It's not easy!

 

But worth the wait!

 

What year SS and how many miles on the original LNF engine? Do you know the root cause of the oil starvation and resulting failure? Bummer to purchase it only to have a total engine failure.

 

I have not a clue what the root cause was. But that being said I'm hoping everything will be ok after starting with a whole new engine with most of the parts, sensors brand new and a rebuilt turbo I will be in the clear! It is a 2008 SS 5-speed manual, with k&n intake, and gm stage upgrade so I have the sensors. During the rebuild I installed zzp intercooler, Ottp charge pipes, Ottp lowering springs, ottp hardcore rear away bar, Ottp stage 3 mounts and zzp engine mount. And also retained the k&n cold air intake.

 

Sounds like quite an investment, I hope everything goes well with the new engine Tyler. How many miles did the original LNF go for you?

Let us know how everything works out on the new build.

 

Update: I drove the car 350 miles after the zzp break in procedure with comps cams break in oil. Changed the oil with new comp cams break in oil and drove until 800 miles. Then changed the oil again finally to synthetic Mobil 1. Each time after inspecting the oil filters no metal flakes or residue could be seen! Yes! After researching cobalt and other LDK swaps I decided to start pushing the engine. At 1500 miles I slowly increased Rpms while still staying out of boost. I then started to introduce boost to the engine. This was due to people saying you should drive the engine like you will and some saying like you stole it lol. But never the less the boost feels good again! Since I have the gmtu it pulls strong and hits 20psi! That being said I had a scary moment while pushing boost at 18psi I heard a loud POP! I pulled over and coolant was good at 194 and no fluid on the ground. I drove back home but my car lost all boost. After getting home I found that the charge pipe had disconnected from the Intercooler And was so relieved! I replaced it and tightened it up! Since then everything is perfect! Just waiting to install an oil catch can once the plumping issues are all solved! All that's left is exhaust and a tune. But 20psi is good for now!Lol
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Keep us posted!! And check those hose clamps! On the charge pipes