a couple of newb questions

[brother rat]

I'm new here and have been reading up.
I've seen claims that it's possible to stroke a 2.3L out to 2.5L using the crank/rods/pistons/head from the 2.5L. But I haven't yet found anyone who has actually completed that. Has it actually been done?

I've also seen something about a switch that shuts off the A/C whenever manifold vacuum pressure drops below a certain level. Any more info on this?

And can anyone recommend a decent trans cooler?

Thanks!
By the way, my vehicle is a 94 2.3L auto 2WD, single cab, short bed.

 

[brother rat]

anyone?

 

[v8318cid]

I'm not sure about vacuum, but there are several sensors throughout that will act as a cutout for the A/C under certain circumstances. Asides from the obvious low pressure switch, there may be a sensor on the power steering system, a wide-open-throttle (WOT) sensor, and possibly a high-pressure cutout switch. The first two are pretty common on a 4-cyl so that under high demand the A/C will cut out to give more power to the engine. The last is typically on most 134a A/C systems in one fashion or another and is used to shut the system down in the event head pressures go too high (due to system failure, fan malfunctions, overcharging, etc...).
Can't really help with the other two issues, but hopefully someone will.

 

[brother rat]

Thank you for the response. I guess I should have phrased my question differently.
I had read that someone had installed an aftermarket switch that would shut the A/C off when intake manifold pressure dropped below a certain level. I am hoping to learn more about this, like the switch that was used and how/where it was installed.

 

[steve63]

circle track racers have been stroking the 2.3 to 2.5 for years,you need the crank,rods,pistons for a 98 and above ranger,their the same engine block as youre 94.

 

[Duane867]

I guess I am not understanding why they wouldn't just use a 2.5 ?

 

[steve63]

you can,but theres a whole lot more 2.3s out there.