I was wondering what should i do to build a hi-torque,hi-HP 2.3. I have a 2.3 out of a 78 pinto. I'm building a derby engine and i need more power.
If turbo is allowed, go that direction if not then I am sure you can find some info in the faq on power buildups.
A turbo would not give you much low end power where you need it, and be MORE prone to damage and overheating, not to mention having senitive electronics if you use an EFI set up.
IMHO: Get a good cam and exhaust, and maybe drill out the jets a few sizes. Keep in mind that the thing that really seems to bring these engines to life is head work.
I would think that a low geared rear would help just as much for a demo, open or welded.
Bill
77turbopinto,
What do you mean head work? I enjoy your expertise. I have a stock 71 wagon and I have been kicking around the idea of doing some work on my head because of unleaded fuel, while I'm at it, is there anything else I should be thinking about doing? I use an additive now. Thanks.
Dale
is the motor in the '71 a 2.0 ? If so the head can be helped a lot by using a die grinder and removing metal under the valve seats and by tapering this metal from the base of the seat area down into the pocket above the valve head. Pay attention to the area around the valve stem also. It can be 'massaged' also to improve flow. They 2.0 responds real well to this type of work. Matching ports too is a good idea
Head work: decking, porting, polishing, bigger valves, better valvesprings, solid lifters...
If you deck it, then go with an adjustable cam gear.
An undersized crank pulley is another thing to do, and there are lots more that can be done to, but it all depends on what you need/want from the engine and how much time/money you want to spend.
Bill
Thanks srt and 77turbopinto, The engine is a 2.0. I have 140.000 miles on the engine. The engine was rebut at 100,000 miles, can I buy a cylinder head with all of those mods? I think my car is a bit underpowered, I don't want to race, just keep up a little better. Not that it mater's, I have a manual 4 speed. I know I'm like the rest of the Pinto owners, man its fun to drive em.
Thanks,
Dale
When these engines get hot they seem to alot of power. But that is stock. What can be done to them so they don't lose that much?