I've got an '83 GSL, and it's very difficult to start when warm. I was doing a little research and it seems like an FC starter should fit (my 83 has the same 225mm flywheel as a NA FC 13B). I happen to have a spare FC starter motor. Would swapping the FC starter onto my FB be able to crank it over a little faster, aiding in hot starts? I'm not trying to put money into the drivetrain considering i plan on a swap this winter.

 

the starter will fit. my brother had an FC starter in his FB a while back. for your issues i doubt it will make any difference though.

have you checked the compression on the engine? even if you have no plans to fix it, it would be best if you found the source of the problem because maybe it is something you're willing/able to fix.

 

Actually no, I haven't compression checked it! I figured that may be the issue considering the car has the original engine and nearly 165k miles. I've been procrastinating getting my new plugs in for a couple months now, so I guess I should really get it done at the same time.

 

well, i would i suspect compression more so because you specified hot start issues than simply because the engine has 165K on it, but either way a compression test would be appropriate and certainly wouldn't hurt.

 

A second vote for a compression check here. What's the swap plans?

 

I have thrown around a handful of ideas in my head, but I'm still working on getting another job so I can actually afford to do something... This is in no order:

Turbo II (stock S5 to save some money, upgrades can come later)
Get my 12a rebuilt and do blow-thru, or run S5 turbo setup. (Have housings redone by Goopy Performance?)

Chevy L33
Nissan SR20DET - leaning towards this over the KA or 3SGTE because aluminum block
Nissan KA24DE with a turbo strapped on
Toyota 3SGTE