Nissan 3.3 Supercharged Engine For Sale

Alright folks, let's talk about something special – the Nissan 3.3L VG33ER supercharged engine. You've probably heard whispers, maybe seen one pop up on forums. This isn’t your garden-variety V6; it's got some punch, thanks to that little Eaton M62 roots-type supercharger bolted on top. You’re considering picking one up? Good choice. Let's dive into the details, so you know exactly what you're getting into.

VG33ER: A Brief Overview

The VG33ER is a 3.3-liter, 60-degree V6 engine that was primarily found in the Nissan Frontier and Xterra from the late 1990s to the mid-2000s. The "ER" suffix designates the supercharged variant. While the naturally aspirated VG33E is a decent engine, the addition of the supercharger transforms it into something far more interesting, offering a significant boost in torque, particularly in the low to mid-range. This makes it a popular choice for off-road enthusiasts and those looking for a bit more grunt from their trucks.

It's important to understand that this engine is based on a cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads. This means it's a relatively robust design, but it's also heavier than some of the newer aluminum-block engines out there. Keep that weight factor in mind if you're planning a swap.

Delving into the Technical Specifications

Engine Block and Internals

The VG33ER’s cast iron block is known for its durability. The bore and stroke dimensions are 91.5 mm x 83 mm, respectively, giving it a displacement of 3275 cc. The crankshaft is made of forged steel, offering decent strength for the increased stresses from the supercharger. However, if you're planning on significantly increasing the boost (more on that later), you might want to consider upgrading the connecting rods and pistons for forged aftermarket units. The stock rods are powder-forged, which are reasonably strong, but not designed for extreme power levels.

The pistons are hypereutectic aluminum, a step up from standard cast aluminum, offering better heat resistance and dimensional stability. Still, for a serious build, forged pistons offer a greater margin of safety.

Cylinder Heads and Valvetrain

The cylinder heads are aluminum, featuring a SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) design. Each head has two valves per cylinder – an intake and an exhaust valve. This is a relatively simple valvetrain design, but it’s reliable. Valve size is an important factor influencing engine breathing. The stock valves are adequate for the stock boost levels, but upgrading to larger diameter valves, along with porting and polishing the heads, can significantly improve airflow, especially at higher RPMs.

The camshaft profiles are fairly mild, designed for good low-end torque. If you're after more top-end power, aftermarket camshafts with more aggressive lift and duration are available. However, remember that changing the camshafts will likely require adjusting the ECU (Engine Control Unit) to optimize the fuel and ignition curves.

Supercharger and Induction

Now for the star of the show: the Eaton M62 roots-type supercharger. This is a positive displacement supercharger, meaning it forces a specific volume of air into the engine with each revolution. Roots-type superchargers are known for their instant boost response, making them great for low-end torque. The M62 is a decent unit, but it does have its limitations. It can become heat-soaked at higher boost levels, reducing its efficiency. This is where an intercooler becomes absolutely essential.

The stock boost level is around 6-7 PSI (pounds per square inch). While you can increase the boost by changing the supercharger pulley (smaller pulley = more boost), be very careful not to exceed the engine's capabilities. Increasing boost without addressing other factors like fuel delivery and engine management can lead to detonation (engine knock), which can quickly destroy your engine. A wideband O2 sensor and a boost gauge are invaluable tools for monitoring engine performance under increased boost.

The throttle body is another area to consider. The stock throttle body is adequate for the stock setup, but a larger throttle body can improve throttle response and overall airflow, especially when combined with other modifications.

Fuel and Engine Management

The VG33ER uses a multi-port fuel injection system. The stock fuel injectors are sized to provide sufficient fuel for the stock power output. However, if you're planning on increasing the boost, you'll almost certainly need to upgrade to larger fuel injectors to prevent a lean condition. A lean condition is when the engine isn't getting enough fuel relative to the amount of air, which can cause dangerously high combustion temperatures and engine damage.

The stock ECU is a Nissan unit that controls fuel delivery, ignition timing, and other engine parameters. It's programmable to a limited extent, but for serious modifications, an aftermarket ECU is highly recommended. Aftermarket ECUs offer far greater flexibility in tuning and allow you to optimize the engine's performance for your specific setup. Popular options include Megasquirt, AEM, and Haltech.

Known Issues and Reliability

The VG33ER is generally a reliable engine, but there are a few known issues to be aware of:

Oil Leaks: Like many older engines, the VG33ER is prone to oil leaks, particularly from the valve cover gaskets, rear main seal, and oil pan gasket. Replacing these gaskets is a relatively straightforward job.
Detonation: As mentioned earlier, detonation is a serious concern, especially with increased boost. Using high-octane fuel, installing an intercooler, and properly tuning the engine are crucial to prevent detonation.
Supercharger Rebuild: The Eaton M62 supercharger is a sealed unit, but over time, the bearings can wear out, leading to noise and reduced performance. Supercharger rebuild kits are available, but it requires some specialized knowledge and tools.
Distributor Issues: The distributor is a common point of failure on these engines. Consider upgrading to a distributor-less ignition system for improved reliability and performance.

Modifying the VG33ER: Potential and Considerations

The VG33ER has good potential for modification, but it's essential to approach it strategically. Here are some common modifications and their considerations:

Intercooler: A must-have for increased boost. An air-to-air intercooler is a popular and effective option.
Boost Pulley Upgrade: Be cautious! Monitor AFR (Air Fuel Ratio) and EGT (Exhaust Gas Temperature) closely.
Fuel Injector Upgrade: Necessary for increased boost to prevent lean conditions.
Aftermarket ECU: Allows for precise tuning and control of the engine.
Camshaft Upgrade: Improves airflow and power output, but requires ECU tuning.
Header and Exhaust System: Improves exhaust flow and can increase power.
Forged Internals: For serious high-boost builds, forged connecting rods and pistons are essential for reliability.

Before you start modifying, have a clear plan and budget. Remember that modifications often have a domino effect – changing one component may require changes to other components as well. Research thoroughly, and don't be afraid to ask for advice from experienced builders.

Buying a Used VG33ER: What to Look For

If you're considering buying a used VG33ER, here are some things to look for:

Mileage: Lower mileage is generally better, but more important is how well the engine was maintained.
Service Records: Look for evidence of regular oil changes and other maintenance.
Compression Test: Perform a compression test to check the health of the cylinders. Consistent compression readings across all cylinders indicate good engine health.
Visual Inspection: Look for signs of leaks, damage, or neglect. Check the condition of the wiring harness, hoses, and other components.
Listen for Noises: Start the engine and listen for any unusual noises, such as knocking, tapping, or whining. These could indicate potential problems.
Supercharger Condition: Inspect the supercharger for any signs of damage or wear. Check the oil level in the supercharger (if applicable) and look for any leaks.

If possible, have a mechanic inspect the engine before you buy it. A professional inspection can uncover potential problems that you might miss.

Final Thoughts

The Nissan VG33ER is a capable and reliable engine with good potential for modification. However, it's essential to understand its limitations and to approach modifications strategically. By doing your research, planning carefully, and paying attention to detail, you can build a powerful and reliable engine that will provide years of enjoyment. Good luck with your build! And remember, safety first!