Ya, works a large factor. I was planning a good year for my swap, but I now may be buying a car thats allready done. As much as I hate to do that, it makes more financial sense. As for an SR swap. My buddy has an Sr swapped 240 and he is at about 10 grand. I’d say just about the same amount of mechanical skill is required, however its almost as expensive as doing an RB swap. SR’s do have some advantages and disadvantages though. I’ve not really read up on SR swaps, this is just what I can think of off the top of my head with the knowledge I have.
Advantages
Aluminum block and head- much lighter, better for handling and balance than the iron block RB engines
Cheaper initial costs- SR engines can usually be found for cheaper than RB’s
Good aftermarket support
Smaller size to work with, you dont have two extra cylinders and the extra length to deal with
I believe you can retain the stock driveshaft with an SR swap, helps out with the $ factor
Disadvantages
Aluminum block and head- aluminum is a pain in the ass to work with. should you ever need machine work done to the block, goodluck finding a shop to do and be prepared to shell out the $. You really have to watch torque specs and observe proper assembly procedures, but you should be doing that anyways. Aluminum blocks (in general) are also not as stout as iron blocks, and everything is more prone to warpage. I think RB engines have an aluminum head, so theres a disdvantage the of an Iron block and an aluminum head having different heat expansion rates due to the different properties of the metals. Always use the best headgasket you can buy with Aluminum head/iron block engines.
Performance parts are still expensive
less displacement = less torque- I’ve read alot about how much better the RB cars take off due to the extra torque they produce, plus you got two more cylinders. An RB engine should also be smoother revving.
SR swaps are everywhere, though still very cool, you dont have the coolness factor of opening your hood to reveal an RB
Once again, I dont have much hands on experience with either engine, I’m just going with my basic engine knowledge, so anyone feel free to call bs on me, I wont mind.