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Welcome to FordPinto.com, The home of the PCCA => General Help- Ask the Experts... => Topic started by: KoepkeZ on March 17, 2015, 09:44:21 PM

Title: 2.3 mild performance build help
Post by: KoepkeZ on March 17, 2015, 09:44:21 PM

I have a 77 bobcat with the 2.3 and wanting more power but not sure of all options for the best outcome. I want to build the original motor but not sure if its worth it or to just drop a 302 into it. Any tips or ideas or anything in detail would be awesome. Overall i want a daily driver but power to play with every so often. Just wanting to know what works best for the build that has the best HP outcome that doesn't deplete my bank account. HELP!!!! thanks

Title: Re: 2.3 mild performance build help
Post by: dianne on March 17, 2015, 10:22:49 PM

You can do a 2.3 Turbo!

Title: Re: 2.3 mild performance build help
Post by: KoepkeZ on March 18, 2015, 02:46:34 AM

I will more than likely go with the blow through turbo and go that route. But want to start from the ground up and the slap that turbo on for a kick

Title: Re: 2.3 mild performance build help
Post by: 76hotrodpinto on March 18, 2015, 10:57:47 AM

Why the blow thru? From what I understand, their harder to find the parts for, fairly troublesome, and don't allow for as much boost as the efi rig.

Title: Re: 2.3 mild performance build help
Post by: Wittsend on March 18, 2015, 11:33:58 AM

 The turbo setup is a bit beyond mild but basically doubles the HP while retaining driveability and mileage (when you keep your foot out of it). Regardless it is probably the best setup for those seeking more power. While some do the V-8 swap it is said to be front end heavy.  Otherwise you are probable looking at  N/A modifications that will net you 10-20 HP maximum. You will have to rely upon others who have done N/A modifications to tell you if they result in any noticeable increase.

  The blow through turbo is not the best setup. Most all would agree to get a donor Turbo Coupe/Merkur/Mustang (turbo) and use the factory injection system. Especially since you have cost considerations .  The good news in your case is that you have a post '73 car and a Bobcat. The 2.3 mounts are already in the car and the Bobcat hood is said to give more clearance.

Here is a turbo swap write up I did. It should give you an idea of what is involved:
http://www.fordpinto.com/index.php?topic=11908.msg76893#msg76893 (http://www.fordpinto.com/index.php?topic=11908.msg76893#msg76893)
http://www.fordpinto.com/general-pinto-talk/so-you-want-to-build-a-turbo-pinto-part-2/msg76894/?topicseen#msg76894 (http://www.fordpinto.com/general-pinto-talk/so-you-want-to-build-a-turbo-pinto-part-2/msg76894/?topicseen#msg76894)