I have a 1972 trunk model, now that the weather is improving I'm back to working on it... Question is I have a 2000cc motor in it that is really tired. I also have a 1976 pinto with a 2300cc. Is it an easy swap or should I stick with the 2000???? any recommendations would be appreciated :)
I think they changed the Width of the Frame Rails in '74' to accomidate the 2.3. So I'm not sure if it is a direct bolt in. You might need to make some custom Motor Mount off the Frame and and I'm also not sure if the Motor Mounts (on the motor) are a direct swap, maybee though. I'd think it has been done before, it's just getting the Info or just seeing if it will fit. Measure the Motor up and Measure the Engine compartment and see if the numbers are compareable.
turbowagonman
I am not sure if the framerails are different but I do know for a fact that the later cars (74 up) had a different radiator support in order to clear the physically longer 2.3L engine. It will fit in the early engine bay, but you may find that fitting the radiator may be an issue unless you run an electric fan on it. I know there are folks on here that have done it, so maybe they can give some good pointers. Try to do a thorough search and read what others have posted.
Good luck!
I put a 2.3 in a 71 once a long time ago. I just used the 2.3 mounts and welded them in place. No further mods as to width. Just put the frame mounts on the engine, drop the engine in, bolt up the trans, driveshaft, ect .... then determine where the engine should fit as to height and weld the mounts in. For the radiator clearance I milled the fan spacer down so it was about an inch long and it worked quite well. It was closer to the pulleys but it still cleared. All this was done in maybe 1979-80ish when pintos where still everywhere. :text_yb_warning: This info guarenteed upto the amount you paid for it. Your milage may vary
Thanks for the info, I guess I need to do some homework before I do the swap!
Cyndie
Hello Pintogal,
The 2.0 engine in your 1972 Pinto is a better engine than the 2.3.
Y would you want to swap it out???
Just re-build the 2.0!!!!!!
The 2.0 came from GERMANY...
Everyone knows they make great engines.
From Pintony
what makes a german motor so great? Personally weve raced the 2.3 with great sucess and I love them. Plus you dont have to order any parts because their real popular in the mustangs too most parts places carry most everything for the 2.3.
Quote from: pintoracer02 on May 27, 2007, 07:25:33 PM
what makes a german motor so great?
Race motors do not have hydraulic lifters!
PintoGal,
I agree that rebuilding the 2.0 that is already in the car would be a better route and easier then installing a 2.3. A Pinto on the road is better then two in the garage.
High_Horse