2.3L ('02-'11) Cranked! 2005 2.3 Duratec

[pjtoledo]

Yep researched that too. Starting to research the 2.5 duratec with 2.3 head, i "think" it'll bolt onto the auto trans in the 05. Some slight mods to the 2.5 block

the Fusion started out with a 2.3 then upgraded to a 2.5, both had auto transaxles so I'm not sure what could be different.

 

[DaveH]

I have a 2010 2.5 on an engine stand in the basement, and my well used 2005 2.3 on a stand too. I'm not sure about block mods, I'm listening.

the 2.5 head has bigger intake ports and bolt pattern, so an adapter is needed to mate 2.3 intake to it, ask the Mazada guys about it.
that's why you would put the 2.3 head on. That and get rid of the cam phasers.
there are no Rwd 2.5 intake manifolds. unless you use the Brazilian intake and fabricate a throttle body/IAC mount.

the geared balancer unit is self contained, and oil fed. the issue is that it makes the oil pan deeper.
that would be a big problem on a 4x4, not so much on a 2wd.
the balancer unit can be removed, the oil feed needs plugged. then a 2.3 pan can be installed.

The Block modification he mentioned in his writeup was simply cutting off a small part. Photo, something about clearance with the motor mounts.

 

[pjtoledo]

interesting, I'll check the block I have.