Frankensteinmotorworks 2ARFE And 2ARFXE Swaps

2AR-FE NA Power!

A 2AR-FE

This Is Fitted For Cars For Under 3000LBS!

Do Weight Reduction! 👈

Mod The Transmission and Car!

Get Better And Approved Performance Tires!

Be The Perfect Driver! 

Selecting the Core Engine and Platform

Begin with a 2AR‑FE (factory ~205 whp) or the fuel‑economy‑tuned 2AR‑FXE (modded variant). Frankenstein Motorworks supports both, though many of the performance cams and intake parts are specific to the FE block, important if you're leaning toward more aggressive tuning. Aim to start with a running, clean engine, this ensures reliability and avoids hidden pitfalls down the line.

Valve Train and Cam Upgrades

FMW’s street cams are designed to work with stock valve springs up to ~7600 rpm, offering a noticeable bump in performance without sacrificing everyday comfort. For more track‑oriented builds, their track cams push further, but require upgraded springs and fuel system changes. These cam upgrades alone can unlock significant gains while staying manageable for street use.

Intake Enhancements: Velocity Stack Manifold

Pairing the cams with the 2AR‑FE velocity‑stack intake manifold is a game‑changer. In dyno testing on a stock motor (plus FMW cams, springs, retainers, lash caps), it produced up to 270 whp, a massive leap over stock performance. This intake dramatically boosts top‑end breathing, while still being realistic for streetability with proper tuning.

Reinforcements: Springs, Studs, and Head Hardware

To support increased RPM and performance, FMW offers 8000‑rpm valve springs, retainers, and ARP head studs, ideal for strengthening the valvetrain and head stability. These parts also provide peace of mind for daily driving and spirited use. A well‑balanced combination of cams and spring upgrades ensures durability without pushing it into full race territory.

Fueling, Tune, and Real-World Expectations

Tuning is essential, especially since fuel and timing demands grow with airflow upgrades. Reddit users report 195–205 whp on a “completely stock motor with just a tune and free‑flowing bolt‑ons,” using intake, cat‑back exhaust, and a tune. Upgraded setups with cams and the velocity stack intake approach 230+ whp, though they often require higher fuel pressure (4 bar) or larger injectors. The gains can be dramatic when you commit to fueling properly.

Real-World Commentary and Street Driveability

On Reddit, one enthusiast summed it up like this:

“With a different intake manifold, it is possible to get to 270 wheel, and potentially beyond while staying NA.”
“Even a stock motor with just a tune and free‑flowing bolt‑ons” got 190–205 wheel horsepower on 87 octane (Reddit).

This reflects the sweet spot of FMW’s strategy: offer modular, bolt-on upgrades that progressively elevate performance, from mild street gains to high-output naturally aspirated builds, while keeping reliability and tune-ability.

Every motor and transmission has a weakness. It is very important to address your motor and transmission for weaknesses before modifying them. 

Check with your local laws and regulations before modifying, swiping motors, and transmission..👈

Important Information Before Swapping A Motor And Transmission..👈