i want to know wnat i need to do for a turbo2.3L or just a 2.3L to fit into a 79 courier. i'm writing in this forum because i cannot find one for the truck. right now i have a 2.0L (with issues) in the truck now. can anyone help me please??
I can't answer your question but you might want to try www.turboford.org as well.
tfrod.org seems to be mainly for cars that already have turbos in them. i need to know if my proposed mtr swap will be a pain in the butt or will the mtr go in with little problems
Sounds like a fun project. I dont know the answer to your question but, have you tried here?>>> http://www.rangerpowersports.com/forum/index.php?s=50e5070ed2c5db9ee59045f8a9a3ddf1 (http://www.rangerpowersports.com/forum/index.php?s=50e5070ed2c5db9ee59045f8a9a3ddf1)
Go to the Ford Pinto mailing list in Yahoo groups and try to get in contact with a guy called BugsTurbo. He's currently building a turbo Ranger and he may be able to help you. He's very knowledgable in all Ford models.
Good luck,,
Bill in WV
I thought the courier came with the 2.3 already? If so, that's half the problem solved right there. I'm thinking it might be a bit narrow on the sides. You need to find out if the 2.3 was available for the truck and then you'll need to take some measurements. The turbo side will be tight I bet.
vbmdu thanks for the info, and yes the courier did come stock with a 2.3L. i guess i need to check if i need to get a tranny also. i just wanna know if it will be a plug and run type swap.
also how do i get on the mailing list???? ???
Go to Yahoo.com, click on "GROUPS", type in Ford Pinto. This search will bring up all yahoo groups that have to do with Ford Pinto's. Go to the one named Ford Pinto Mailing List ( has over 400 members ). Join the group, then post for BugsTurbo. I guarentee he can answer most, if not all of your questions.
Since I turbo powered my Pinto I can help.
Using a Merkur drivetrain will help. You'll need all the engine wiring and as much of the fuel line as possible including the pump. The turbo side of the engine bay will be tight, but then again maybe not because it's a truck. Wheelwell width will be critical for you. I used a C3 transmission on mine but might not work on this truck. Wiring is not hard, but is tedious if you want a nice clean looking installation. You might need a front sump oil pan and pickup depending. You can probably use your stock fuel tank, but mount the external pump underneath the truck. I used stock alt bracket so the original alternator fit in the original place. Check the turbo engine for condition. Unless stated in writing, assume the cylinder head is cracked.
www.turboford.org is for ALL 2.3Ts. Stock modded, swapped.
You will find ALL the info you need there. Search the archives. Then what you cant find... post and ask.
Jim
One of the board boss' ,Greg O'Brian, I think has a Turbo Corier,
so yes it has and can be done.
As far as the Turbo swap,from what I have heard is that it is not to bad for the EFI one even easier if you get the draw through carbed engine. no ecu and wiring to do.