The Premium 3.1L Crate Engine for 1996-1999 GM Vehicles
The VEGE DCH8 remanufactured long block crate engine delivers premium-quality, budget-friendly performance for your GM vehicle replacement project. This 3.1L V6 is a direct-fit replacement for 1996-1999 Chevrolet, Buick, Oldsmobile, and Pontiac vehicles equipped with the fuel-injected 3.1L V6 (VIN “M”) . 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 Chevrolet Malibu, Buick Century, Oldsmobile Cutlass, Pontiac Grand Prix, or any compatible application, this DCH8 crate engine delivers the reliability and performance that GM enthusiasts demand.
What Makes the VEGE DCH8 a Smart Replacement Choice?
The VEGE DCH8 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 3.1L V6 is designed specifically for GM vehicles across multiple divisions. 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.
VEGE DCH8 Engine Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Part Number | DCH8 |
| Displacement | 3.1L |
| Engine Family | GM 60° V6 |
| Configuration | V6 |
| VIN | “M” |
| Cylinder Head Material | Aluminum |
| Engine Block Material | Cast iron |
| Assembly Status | Long Block, Assembled |
| Cylinder Heads Included | Yes |
| Remanufactured | Yes |
| Intake Manifold Included | No |
| Throttle Body Included | No |
| Oil Pan Included | No |
| Valve Covers Included | No |
| Timing Cover Included | No |
| Water Pump Included | No |
| Harmonic Balancer Included | No |
| Flexplate/Flywheel Included | No |
Please note: Ancillary components must be transferred from your original engine to the VEGE replacement unit. Engine includes oil pump and gasket .
VEGE Remanufactured Engines – Quality You Can Trust
Over 80 Years of Remanufacturing Excellence
VEGE has been at the forefront of the automotive aftermarket industry since 1936, founded in the Netherlands by Mr. Wim Versteeg . VEGE remanufactured long block crate engines are an excellent foundation for budget-minded builds, providing premium-quality refurbished engines that 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 . The engines are thoroughly tested and calibrated to deliver maximum performance and long-term durability.
Certified Quality and Testing
VEGE’s advanced production process is backed by over 80 years of experience, ensuring performance and reliability on par with new OEM products . Throughout reassembly, every VEGE engine must pass rigorous quality tests at every stage of the rebuilding process.
VEGE Gasoline Engine Warranty: 3-year / unlimited mileage
What’s Included with Your VEGE DCH8 Long Block?
When you purchase this VEGE DCH8 long block from NH Race Engine, you receive a fully assembled remanufactured engine ready for installation:
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✅ Remanufactured cast iron engine block
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✅ Reconditioned aluminum cylinder heads
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✅ Internal rotating assembly (crankshaft, connecting rods, pistons)
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✅ Camshaft and valvetrain components
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✅ 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, timing cover, water pump, and harmonic balancer must be transferred from your original engine.
DCH8 Engine Applications and Fitment
Compatible Vehicles
The VEGE DCH8 is a direct-fit replacement for vehicles equipped with the GM 3.1L 60° V6 engine (VIN “M”). Compatible applications include :
Chevrolet:
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1996-1999 Chevrolet Malibu (3.1L V6)
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1996-1999 Chevrolet Lumina (3.1L V6)
Buick:
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1996-1999 Buick Century (3.1L V6)
Oldsmobile:
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1996-1999 Oldsmobile Cutlass (3.1L V6)
Pontiac:
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1996-1999 Pontiac Grand Prix (3.1L V6)
Technical Specifications
According to product specifications :
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VIN: “M” designation
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Cylinder Heads: Aluminum
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Engine Block: Cast iron
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Shipping Weight: 274 lbs
Emissions Compliance
Important: This engine is designed for replacement use in vehicles originally equipped with this engine configuration. Verify emissions compliance for your specific application and jurisdiction.
VEGE DCH8 Engine FAQs
What vehicles use the VEGE DCH8 engine?
The DCH8 is designed as a direct replacement for 1996-1999 Chevrolet, Buick, Oldsmobile, and Pontiac vehicles equipped with the 3.1L V6 engine with VIN “M” .
What material are the block and heads made of?
The VEGE DCH8 features a cast iron engine block and aluminum cylinder heads .
What’s included with the VEGE DCH8?
The DCH8 comes as an assembled long block including cylinder heads, internal components, oil pump, and gasket. All other ancillary components must be transferred from your original engine .
What warranty comes with the VEGE DCH8 engine?
VEGE gasoline engines are backed by a comprehensive 3-year / unlimited mileage warranty.
Is the DCH8 a direct replacement for my GM vehicle?
Yes, the VEGE DCH8 engine is a direct-fit replacement for vehicles originally equipped with the 3.1L V6 engine with VIN “M” .
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 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 DCH8 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 DCH8 Crate Engine from NH Race Engine Today
The VEGE DCH8 Remanufactured Long Block Crate Engine delivers exceptional value for 1996-1999 GM vehicle 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 DCH8 engine requirements. Our expert team can help you navigate compatibility, shipping, and installation considerations for your European vehicle.

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