2.9L-2.8L differences?

wagonerkl · Nov 3, 2011

I need to replace my 2.8L (bottom end is shot and have some scoring on cylinder walls). I have a 2.9 short block available. Is it possible to just use the 2.9 block and bolt on my 2.8L heads and manifold? What if any significant differences are there between the two?

Also, if someone has done a 2.8 carb to 2.9L EFI swap, how did that work out? Seems like it would be a mess what with all the different sensors, vacuum lines, etc.

This is an '84 Bronco II with a very nice interior, but it was only a $500 investment so I am looking for a way to keep it cheap and simple so my daughter can drive it.

85_Ranger4x4 · Nov 3, 2011

2.8 heads will not work on a 2.9.

The valves are in different locations so the manifolds will not line up with the right port, and since one has a geardrive cam setup and one has a timing chain the cam spins the wrong way between them so they are not interchangable either.

People have done 2.9 and 4.0 swaps, I haven't though.

cody93 · Nov 3, 2011

i would just swap in a whole working motor instead of trying to piece one together...

mp3deviant721 · Nov 3, 2011

cody93 said:
i would just swap in a whole working motor instead of trying to piece one together...

+1

adsm08 · Nov 3, 2011

Engine, wiring, computer, fuel lines. That's all you will really need to make it work.

Will · Nov 3, 2011

And cooling. But then that's it.

85_Ranger4x4 · Nov 3, 2011

Will said:
And cooling. But then that's it.

It should be the same little single core radiator. My '86 2.9 parts truck looked to have the same radiator as my '85 with a 2.8.

2.9L-2.8L differences?

wagonerkl

10+ Year Member

85_Ranger4x4

Wallers in rivers

cody93

15+ Year Member

mp3deviant721

15+ Year Member

adsm08

Senior Master Grease Monkey

Will

Forum Staff Member

85_Ranger4x4

Wallers in rivers

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