97 turbo

[wedefyu]

Has anyone took a stock 97 2.3L and mounted a new turbo on it? I found a kit on eBay with new parts (not everything but a lot of the parts). But will my 97 Ranger head work? What years will work on my block, or is there an aftermarket head? Then what about the ignition, I have the dual plug per cylinder setup, should I just mount an MSD distributer and box? How does a 3/4 drop look on these rangers? Do you have pictures? Thanks.

[Dave R]

You have much reading/learning to do. But, to touch on a few of your questions...

Yes, several people have mounted turbo's on their stock Rangers.

I don't think I'd trust anything from 90% of the Evil-bay sellers.

Yes, but your stock head can be improved on.

The only aftermarket heads for the 2.3/2.5 are a bit pricey and would require you to replace the intake manifold as well. That might be a real problem depending on your state's emmissions laws.

Your block has no provision for a distributor. And the stock ignition system is adequite for most turbo applications anyway.

[wedefyu]

Thanks for the help. Can you tell me where to start reading? I did notice today there's no place for a distributer, but how can i use my stock ignition? Is there a windows based software that will allow me to change the timing and map fuel curves once I replace my injectors. Am I better off replacing my head? What changes to it are to be made for it to work with turbo? Do I really want the extra spark plugs firing on the exhuast stroke of a turbo application? I understand about the eBay thing too, I don't think the seller could have told me what his items even did.

[D94R]

You can find a lot of information on this site, or you can look on RPS 2.3T (http://www.rangerpowersports.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=51), or Turbo Rangers Forum (http://rangersrevenge.com/cgi/index.php) and even Turbo Ford (http://www.turboford.net/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi) for your informational needs.


Keeping your stock ignition is easy and preferable with your OBD-II engine setup. Run an SCT tuner.


Your head is fine to get you started, but it can be opened up and flow better (like any stock head).