so I'm picking up my motor tomorrow and I'm wondering what all "little pieces" i might need, i.e. gaskets, sensors.... whatever

any help would be greatly appreciated, thanks in advance!

 

Nefore you drop the new engine in, I'd change the following while it's on a stand:

valve cover gaskets
spark plugs
EGR valve
oil pan gasket
timing system (belt, tensioner, water pump, etc)
clean the living hell out of it (easier to spot leaks)
primary O2 sensors (or if yours are good, swap them on once the old motor's out)
motor mounts
snub mount

Other than that, obviously you'll need fluids. I'd do the CTS too, and if you can afford the time, degrease the engine bay. You'll need new exhaust gaskets (manifold-to-cat). Sounds like a lot but do it right the first time and it'll be a lot easier on you.

 

Thanks Devil, I'll be sure to follow your advice to the letter. I've already put it on a stand and cleaned the **** out of the new one, gonna start pulling the old engine out tomorrow.

How long have you been playing with these beautiful torture devices?