Here's a slightly different one. I'm trying to justify fixing my ratbagged-turd 76 MPG. I love the car, but i want a 71, and only a 71 (not a 72 or 73), and really... there isn't a single aspect ov my 76 that doesn't need SERIOUS work. Hooped suspension, cooling, fuel and brake systems... plus a whole lotta rust.


If i fix the head gasket, which... will obviously HAVE to involve shaving (for a full point ov compression) and porting the head, putting it back on with a header, and anything else i can think ov while its apart that doesn't cost me any money... i might just have a pretty keen running lil 2.3. Seems like a lot ov work and wasted money if i cant use the stuff on a nicer 71, should i finally come across one. I know nothing interchanges, engine-wise. Further... a T5 5-speed OD bolts right up to a 2.3, but not a 2L.


If i build a nice lil 2.3/T5 will it be a hassle to swap it into a 71?


My Pinto goals are speed and handling, but definitely mileage as well.

I just got my 71 running with a 2.3 and 5spd. It meant cuting out old motor mounts and welding in newer 2.3 type, but wasnt that hard. I needed to shorten the driveshaft I had but you may not have to. There is not enough room for a regular fan blade so I put an electric fan in front of radiator. I also converted to later Ford electronic ignition(Duraspark). runs pretty good and gets about 25mpg in town. I am also running a 91 mustang roller cam. Let me know if you need any more info