Looking to swap 2.3 for something with more zip. Got any suggestions.

I got a 93' with 2.3L with 5 speed manual. I want to swap the engine with something better. I would like to know what engines would bolt up or something with not to many complications.

 

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There was a 2.5. '98-'01. Its a stroked "Pinto engine", and the engine you're running is the classic Pinto engine.
Ford ported the 2.5's head and gave it bigger valves, too (and yes, that head fits your 2.3).
I've got one in my '98. Its not much to write home about, but it would have a little more dig than your 2.3, due to the larger crankshaft.
….otherwise, one of the Duratech's or a 4.0L.

 

I'm not really finding anything online about what would be good drop-in/bolt-up without changing the tranny. If you've got the money, I'd put a 4.0l with the manual transmission. My '93 4x4 with the 4.0 got 16 mpg with the manual tranny. It's also got plenty of power. If not, I wonder if the 98-01 pinto 2.5 mentioned by DeanMk would drop in and bolt up. I'm surprised Mhoward hasn't said anything.

 

Zappy Bear,

Clarification - Ford Pinto's never used a 2.5L engine.
My engine is based on the 2.3 that powered millions of Pinto's over the years of its production, but its not the "Pinto Engine", only based on it.
The closest you could get, and still be correct, would be to call it a Stroked Pinto Engine, since that's exactly what it is.


Dean

 

Find a ford explorer 5.0 same year and the motor mounts go right in find you a 5.0 and have some fun.

 

Mike,

Would the tranny be able to hold up for long?

 

Putting a lower rear end in would help, like 4.10’s. Esp if you have a really high rear end right now, like 3.45’s

 

I've been thinking about doing the same with my truck...there was a 3.73 ratio available, too.