The Premium 3.8L Crate Engine for 1997-2002 Camaro & Firebird

The VEGE DB61 remanufactured long block crate engine is a premium-quality replacement for 1997-2002 Chevrolet Camaro and Pontiac Firebird vehicles equipped with the 3.8L/231 cubic inch V6 engine (VIN K) . This 3.8L V6 is a direct-fit replacement for these iconic F-Body applications, providing budget-friendly performance without compromising on quality . With VEGE’s over 80 years of remanufacturing expertise, each engine is reverse-engineered to remove original factory defects and reconditioned to meet or exceed OEM specifications .

Whether you’re restoring a 1997-2002 Camaro or Firebird, this DB61 crate engine delivers the reliability and durability that GM enthusiasts demand.

What Makes the VEGE DB61 a Smart Replacement Choice?

The VEGE DB61 long block is far more than a simple used engine—it’s a thoroughly remanufactured assembly that undergoes rigorous quality control . As part of VEGE’s extensive GM engine program, this 3.8L V6 is designed specifically for 1997-2002 F-Body applications .

VEGE’s advanced remanufacturing process begins with complete disassembly of the donor core, stripping it back to component parts for inspection and cleaning. Certified technicians then recondition components to factory specifications, replacing wearable parts or machining them back to OE standards . The engines are thoroughly tested and calibrated to deliver maximum performance and long-term durability.

All of VEGE’s manufacturing facilities have achieved both QS-9000 and ISO 9001 certification levels, making VEGE one of the few engine remanufacturers in the world to hold both engineering and manufacturing certifications . Each engine is tested (most are hot-run tested) for compression, oil pressure, oil leaks, engine noise, and general operating condition before shipment .

VEGE DB61 Engine Specifications

Based on the product specifications from multiple sources :

Please note: Ancillary components such as the intake manifold, throttle body, oil pan, valve covers, water pump, and harmonic balancer must be transferred from your original engine . Engine includes oil pump and gasket .

VEGE Remanufactured Engines – Quality You Can Trust

Over 80 Years of Remanufacturing Excellence

VEGE was founded in 1936 and has been at the forefront of the automotive aftermarket industry ever since . VEGE remanufactured long block crate engines are an excellent foundation for budget-minded builds . These premium-quality refurbished engines are drop-in replacements for a wide range of stock vehicles—and can be retrofitted into additional applications .

Each engine is reverse-engineered to ensure that any original defects are removed. Certified technicians recondition the long blocks to factory specifications, replacing wearable parts or machining them back to OE standards . VEGE’s advanced and efficient production process, backed by over 80 years of experience, enables the supply of remanufactured engines with a level of quality that equals that of new OEM products at extremely competitive prices .

Certified Quality and Testing

The VEGE DB61 engine has received the following quality certifications :

• QS-9000 and ISO 9001 certification levels

• VEGE Motoren parent company also achieved ISO 9001 certification

Quality Process Highlights :

• Engine blocks are magnafluxed, bored, precision-honed, and mains line-honed

• Camshaft bearings are line-bored for accurate center-to-center clearance

• Engine blocks and cylinder heads are precision surfaced

• Cylinder heads are magnafluxed and machined for three-angle valve seats

• Crankshafts are stress-relieved, precision ground, and micro-polished

• Camshafts are precision ground or replaced with new camshafts

• Each engine is tested (most are hot-run tested) for compression, oil pressure, oil leaks, engine noise, and general operating condition before shipment

VEGE Gasoline Engine Warranty: 3-year / unlimited mileage 

What’s Included with Your VEGE DB61 Long Block?

When you purchase this VEGE DB61 long block from NH Race Engine, you receive a fully assembled remanufactured engine ready for installation :

• ✅ Remanufactured engine block

• ✅ Reconditioned cylinder heads

• ✅ Internal rotating assembly (crankshaft, connecting rods, pistons)

• ✅ Camshaft and valvetrain components

• ✅ Timing cover

• ✅ Oil pump and gasket

Important Note: This is a long block assembly. Ancillary items such as the intake manifold, throttle body, oil pan, valve covers, water pump, and harmonic balancer must be transferred from your original engine .

DB61 Engine Applications and Fitment

Compatible Vehicles

The VEGE DB61 is a direct-fit replacement for vehicles equipped with the GM 3.8L/231 V6 engine (VIN K) . Compatible applications include:

Chevrolet:

• 1997-2002 Chevrolet Camaro 

Pontiac:

• 1997-2002 Pontiac Firebird 

Technical Specifications

According to product specifications :

• Displacement: 3.8L / 231 cubic inches

• VIN Code: K

• Assembly: Long Block, Assembled

• Cylinder Heads: Included

• Timing Cover: Included

• Remanufactured: Yes

• Shipping Weight: 600 lbs 

Emissions Compliance

Non-Emissions: This product does not require an Executive Order in California. By nature of its design, it is legal for sale and use in all 50 states .

VEGE DB61 Engine FAQs

What vehicles use the VEGE DB61 engine?

The DB61 is designed as a direct replacement for 1997-2002 Chevrolet Camaro and 1997-2002 Pontiac Firebird vehicles equipped with the 3.8L V6 engine with VIN “K” .

What’s included with the VEGE DB61?

The DB61 comes as an assembled long block including cylinder heads, timing cover, oil pump, and gasket. Intake manifold, throttle body, oil pan, valve covers, water pump, and harmonic balancer are not included .

What warranty comes with the VEGE DB61 engine?

VEGE gasoline engines are backed by a comprehensive 3-year / unlimited mileage warranty . ATK also offers a No Fault Gold Warranty Program for added protection .

What is the displacement of the DB61 engine?

The DB61 has an actual displacement of 3.8L / 231 cubic inches .

What quality certifications does VEGE hold?

VEGE’s manufacturing facilities have achieved both QS-9000 and ISO 9001 certification levels, one of the few engine remanufacturers in the world to have done so .

Is the DB61 a direct replacement for my Camaro or Firebird?

Yes, the VEGE DB61 engine is a direct-fit replacement for 1997-2002 Camaro and Firebird vehicles originally equipped with the 3.8L V6 engine with VIN “K” .

Why Choose NH Race Engine for Your GM Crate Engine?

As a Netherlands-based specialist serving performance enthusiasts across Europe, NH Race Engine brings unmatched expertise to your GM F-Body project. We understand the unique requirements of European builds—from shipping logistics to regional considerations. Our team of experienced professionals can guide you through every aspect of your VEGE DB61 engine purchase.

Browse our Small Block Chevy collection and other crate engine offerings to find the perfect solution for your build. We also offer a complete range of supporting parts—from fuel pumps to transmissions—to ensure your build is comprehensive and reliable.

Order Your VEGE DB61 Crate Engine from NH Race Engine Today

The VEGE DB61 Remanufactured Long Block Crate Engine delivers exceptional value for 1997-2002 Camaro and Firebird replacement projects. With VEGE’s industry-leading remanufacturing process, comprehensive 3-year warranty, and NH Race Engine’s European distribution network, you can trust that your replacement engine delivers the quality and reliability you demand.

Contact NH Race Engine today to discuss your DB61 engine requirements. Our expert team can help you navigate compatibility, shipping, and installation considerations for your European vehicle.