How Long Does It Take to Swap an Engine?
An engine swap is one of the most powerful upgrades you can give your vehicle, but how long does it take? The answer depends on the complexity of the swap, fabrication work, wiring, tuning, and parts availability. Some swaps can take just a few weeks, while others—like custom Hellcat or LS swaps—can take several months to complete.
⏳ Average Engine Swap Timelines
Basic Engine Swap (Stock Replacement or Same-Platform Swap): 2 - 6 weeks
Performance Engine Swap (LS, Coyote, or HEMI Swap with Some Mods): 3 - 6 months
Custom Fabricated Engine Swap (Hellcat, Twin-Turbo, or Race-Ready Build): 6+ months
🚗 Need a custom estimate? Get a Quote Here
⚙️ What Affects Engine Swap Time?
Engine Compatibility: Some swaps, like LS-to-GM or Coyote-to-Mustang, are easier. Others, like a Hellcat swap into a Jeep or classic muscle car, require more modifications.
Custom Fabrication Needs: If mounts, driveshafts, or crossmembers need to be custom-built, expect longer turnaround times.
Wiring & Electronics: Modern engines need custom wiring harnesses, ECU reprogramming, and tuning.
Parts Availability: Special-order parts, custom machining, or aftermarket performance upgrades can delay the process.
Drivetrain Upgrades: If you're swapping in a more powerful engine, you may also need a stronger transmission, differential, fuel system, and axles.
Tuning & Testing: A proper engine swap isn’t complete until it’s tuned and tested on the dyno or street.
🚀 Real-World Swap Examples & Time Estimates
How Long Does an LS Swap Take?
Basic LS Swap (Stock LS Engine, Minimal Mods): 2 - 3 months
Performance LS Swap (Aftermarket Cams, Headers, Tune): 3 - 6 months
Custom LS Swap (Turbocharged, Custom-Fabricated Build): 6+ months
How Long Does a Coyote Swap Take?
Stock Coyote Swap (Factory ECU, No Major Mods): 3 - 6 months
Performance Coyote Swap (Headers, Cams, Custom Tune): 6 months
Built Coyote Swap (Supercharged or Twin Turbo Build): 6+ months
How Long Does a Hellcat Swap Take?
Stock Hellcat Swap (Factory Tune, No Major Mods): 4 - 6 months
Performance Hellcat Swap (Aftermarket Upgrades, More Boost): 6 - 8 months
RedEye, Demon, or Custom Twin Turbo Build: 8+ months
🔥 Why Engine Swaps Take Time
Most engine swaps take several months, not because of slow progress, but because of the precision and engineering required. Every engine swap at Hellcat Swap Shop is:
Custom-built and fully tested before delivery.
Designed for maximum reliability and performance.
Fabricated and installed by expert hands.
Your build is worth the wait. Every project is done with attention to detail, expert tuning, and high-performance results.
🏆 Why Choose Hellcat Swap Shop?
✔ 25+ years of experience in custom swaps, tuning, and performance builds.
✔ First-ever swaps—we specialize in history-breaking builds.
✔ Full-service shop handling custom fabrication, tuning & drivetrain upgrades.
✔ Located in Port Lavaca, TX—customers ship their cars from across the country.
💥 Want to start your build? Get on the waitlist today!
📞 Call us at 1-361-248-2500
