i've got a 90 ranger with a 2.3 and i was wondering if it would hold up to boost like the svo 2.3. i plan on rebuilding it but i just want to make sure i'm not going to run into any major issues that make the project a waste like the block not holding up or something.
any input would be appreciated.
thanks

 

If by "rebuild it" you mean replace the stock NA rods and piston's with those from a turbo motor you'll probably be fine. The NA block won't become an issue till you make 350+, although some have narrow journals (don't know which ones). You'll want a turbo wiring harness and computer, as well as fueling system.

 

i'd use megasquirt for tuning and i know i'd have to upgrade the fuel system. i would rebuild with turbo parts. i'm just use to dsm's with weak blocks so i didn't want any issues like that.

 

Try to find a 2.3 from one of the late 70s mustang/capris that came with a hair dryer, supposedly they have the beefy bottom ends, check with the local roundy-round guys thay seem to have hoarded all of the 2.3 stuff for their mini stockers. good luck with the project, sounds like fun.

 

will do. i also have to upgrade my rear end to an 8.8. the 7.5 i don't think will hold up even with just a minor bump in power

 

Depends on how much power you plan to make. The 7.5 rear from the na mustangs was holding fine for me putting down 238rwhp and 310 pds of torque. Far as i've seen and been told after 350rwhp is when the 7.5's start blowing gears. The 2.3L blocks are also fine whether their n/a or turbo blocks. Their made of the same stuff just diff in journals. Only thing that is needed is to upgrade to pistons and rods from the turbo motors and tap the oil pan for an oil return line. Feel free to ask any other questions, i've got 2 of svo motors in 2 of my mustangs.

 

well my truck has 200k miles on it so i don't know what will break if i don't rebuild everything

 

I think the rods are the same between N/A and turbo motors. I think the only difference is forged pistons in the turbo and the block has the oil return hole drilled and tapped (you could do it into the pan though if its easier). The head will have smaller chambers and thus higher compression, so either get a turbo head or hog out the chambers of yours (or just run 8lbs with the higher compression).

 

Meh just get a wide band and get the afr set correctly, I've known plenty of guys using a stock na head making 500rwhp so ya.

 

well my next question is about the trans. will the stock trans hold up a decent amount of power? i'm not looking for anything crazy just a little more get up and go.
oh and i have the mazda tranny in it