Glad something I said helped you. I just want to clarify that when I mentioned earlier about looking "locally" for an engine, I actually had the classifieds on this board in mind when I wrote that. Many times when I buy parts, that's what I do. I don't mind driving a few hours to get something. I don't know how you feel about that, but I just want to basically be a third voice for using the classifieds here.
This is a valid fear, and I wish I could tell you that it's not going to happen. However, the reality of the matter is even if you were to farm out a contract to a builder, the project would likely hit at least one major snag. It's just a part of the game.
If you're going with an OEM computer, then you'll just have to look for one (assuming the engine doesn't already come with one). When the time comes, if you're having trouble finding one I can give you a couple of ideas with guys that I would trust. If you're talking about a new or used aftermarket system, then it will come with a harness - you may or may not have to pay extra though depending on what you're getting and who is selling it.

 

My #1 suggestion for an engine swap is to take pics of how things were set up and connected to the car before you get the old engine out. And tag the connectors with what they connect to. It will help you a LOT when you are connecting the new engine.

 

You guys are so helpful. I'm glad I joined this page before ripping into this thing pretty much clueless. But I'll probably just try to find an aftermarket ecu and harness online or something then.

 

I feel like it does take some cluelessness to dive into a project like this on such a worthless old car

I'm not throwing shade, I am doing my second engine swap on my third RX-7...

 

Yeah I guess you're right lol. I'm just hoping this project is kindof beginner friendly

 

I completed an N/A 13b swap using a complete s4 donor car, and it was pretty involved, but very doable. With the TurboII, You'll have some differences like the exhaust. The s5, has an electric omp that needs to be connected at least if not installed, and you'll have to mount an intercooler, but that's all manageable. If you get the engine setup, make sure you get the WHOLE wiring harness including the left side harness that crosses the dash, this is the only harness that needs to be modified, and the other two that run through the passenger side can be left alone, and ran as is. At that point, you'll only need get the -SE pan and front cover, you"ll need the -SE cover to mount the TII OMP. Then you're going to need to figure out the fuel pump situation. In my s4 N/A swap, I cut out the mount ring and slosh cup out of the FC's tank, and installed them in my Gs tank. The 12a trans might have an issue holding up to the turbo. I'm sure there's a few other problems that will come up during the process, but that's just half the fun of the project!

 

Just a couple things to add ...

That ... and to maintain the original bolt pattern and shape. Not a huge deal, but just putting it out there.

Not necessarily. This just comes down to expectations, maintenance and use. Also, remember you'll need to match flywheel/clutch for Type M trannies. Again, no big deal since the OEM flywheels are interchangeable within the same Series.