Hey guys, So I've recently discovered that I have a broken cam cap in my '01 GS500. Unfortunately as you know that requires replacement of the entire head at minimum and sourcing a used head is proving to be next to impossible. So, that brings me to the question:

Can I put an entire engine from a 2003+ GS500 into my 2001? Ive been told that it should be a near direct drop in replacement but I'm looking for some clarity on this. I know there may be possible Tach issues and possibly some of the wiring may need to be cut and spliced vs plug and play, but mechanically, will it fit in and operate just as it should?

Thank you guys for the advice!

Physically the motors and frame did not change.there is the difference between the e/f (oil cooler).

Just out if interest is the cam cap  just stripped or is it actually broken? Possible to post a pic?
I bought a used head a few years ago, was for a 95 I think. Fitted perfectly on my 2003.

Besides the tachometer difference I can't think of anything else that might be a problem.  Should be plug n play the rest of it.

Your 2001 tach is cable driven and the 2003+ are electronic.  The hole where the cable slots in on the newer engines is blocked off.  You will need to replace the tach or ride with a dead tach needle.  Me I don't have a tach at all and it doesn't bother me one bit.