Remember Project Thunderbolt? Four years ago, in collaboration with Summit Racing, we brought my dream car to life. The vision was simple: cram a massive engine into a compact car, specifically a V8-powered roadster that delivered exhilarating performance. Many of you followed that thrilling build journey right here on OnAllCylinders and on YouTube. The experience was incredible, and the joy of driving that machine continues to this day.
Project Thunderbolt doing what it loves, carving up the curves on the world famous “Tail of The Dragon” in Deals Gap, NC.
However, owning an LS3-powered Miata, while providing a personal rollercoaster of excitement, isn’t always the most practical choice for daily driving. This realization sparked a new question:
Could we capture the raw, V8 roadster spirit of Project Thunderbolt and channel it into a vehicle with everyday usability? Perhaps something like a truck?
Imagine the thrill of a 500-horsepower Miata, but packaged in a vehicle that can handle daily tasks and offer genuine utility. That’s precisely the concept behind our new venture: Project Firebolt!
And the foundation for this exciting build? My very own 2002 Toyota Tacoma.
This clean and unsuspecting 2002 Toyota Tacoma Stepside is about to receive a substantial power increase.
Just as with Thunderbolt, finding the right starting point was crucial. After an extensive search, I located this gem – a one-owner, low-mileage 2002 Toyota Tacoma purchased brand new from the local dealership. Its pristine condition and history made it the ideal candidate for Project Firebolt.
Here’s the blueprint we’re working with for this 2002 Toyota Tacoma transformation:
Our heart will be a robust, Gen 3, 5.3L iron block V8 engine, already broken-in and ready for a new lease on life. To revitalize this powerplant, we’ll implement a series of straightforward yet effective upgrades. This refreshed V8 will serve as the bedrock for a substantial turbocharger, ready to deliver the kind of boost these engines readily accept.
To support this enhanced power output, we’ll incorporate a comprehensive system of air, fuel, and exhaust components designed for optimal performance. Behind our boosted 5.3L, a heavy-duty built 4L80E transmission will manage the increased horsepower, transferring power to a Ford 8.8 differential at the rear, ensuring it effectively meets the pavement.
That’s the overarching vision for Project Firebolt. Over the next few months, we’re injecting some serious energy into this Radiant Red 2002 Toyota Tacoma, force-feeding it a generous dose of turbocharged V8 power under the hood – promising tire-scorching performance and a whole lot of fun!
Under the hood of a stock 2002 toyota tacoma pickup truck, revealing the factory 4-cylinder engine.
While this 2002 Toyota Tacoma is perfectly functional in its current form, the factory 2.4L 4-cylinder engine paired with an automatic transmission is, to put it mildly, underpowered. Acceleration is sluggish in most driving situations – except, perhaps, when going downhill with a strong tailwind.
A used 5.3L LM7 GM LS V8 engine, the foundation for Project Firebolt, sourced from a 2001 Chevrolet Suburban.
Here’s the cornerstone of Project Firebolt: a well-used 5.3L LM7 V8 engine pulled from a 2001 Chevrolet Suburban. It’s certainly grimy, but it’s packed with potential.
Removing the coil packs from the used LS engine to prepare it for cleaning and inspection.
To effectively clean this engine block, we first need to remove various accessories and components to access all surfaces.
Extensive degreasing and pressure washing are essential to eliminate 18 years of accumulated dirt and grime from the LS engine.
It took considerable effort – lots of degreaser, scrubbing, and pressure washing – to cut through nearly two decades of accumulated grime and grease.
The significantly cleaner LS engine block now mounted on a stand, ready for teardown and inspection.
Much better! With the thick layer of sludge removed, tearing down this engine for inspection and upgrades will be a significantly cleaner and more manageable process. Stay tuned for the next steps in transforming this 2002 Toyota Tacoma into Project Firebolt!
