PINTO CAR CLUB of AMERICA
Welcome to FordPinto.com, The home of the PCCA => General Help- Ask the Experts... => Topic started by: 1974pintowagon! on July 14, 2017, 06:01:46 AM
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I'm wondering if the long block out of a 88 Tbird TC will bolt right up in place of my stock 2.3 and bolt up to my existing 4speed transmission?
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Absolutely. Just need to swap the oil pump pickup and change the dipstick location for the front sump pan. Make sure it has a pilot bearing for the 4 speed trans. The 88 head has d shaped intake ports so there is a mismatch with your original oval port intake but it will bolt up.
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As stated the block will bolt in. The pan change requires the oil pick up to be changed too. If your going to the wrecking yards to get these parts be aware the pick up has star bolts holding it in. One is in a rather difficult position.
Be aware, the T/C are said to be lower compression due to the turbo boost. So, if you are just using the block/head with a normally aspirated set up you will be down on power. I'm not sure if the compression is lost in the pistons or the head. I believe it is in the pistons.
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Yes the turbo engine has lower compression (8.0 vs 8.2 maybe). I've had a turbo shortblock as my workhorse for many years (2 different cars, different times each). I doubt you'll notice a performance difference. The pick up bolts are 8mm 12 point. Just swap over the parts from your current engine.
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If I do this swap it gonna be turbo. I have a while complete TC that I'm thinking of taking the motor from because I'm getting another motor with lower miles. I'm just wondering if the long block will go in easily and I can figure out other fitments like turbo and what not because I'm sure I'll have to customize the engine bay