So I have all winter...

[Speedwagon]

'87 Ranger 4x4, 2.3L NA as of right now. I'm fairly certain there is a problem in the head, but the compression test was fairly solid. I want more power out of this truck, but I don't really want to go with a full engine conversion swap. So I'm thinking turbo on this little 4 banger, with a low-rpm spooling turbo.

Now I have all winter to do this... so I can either swap in a used turbo engine, in unknown condition. Or I can do all the work myself on my current setup, rebuild the lower end on it and whatnot. The vehicle has about 200k miles on it.

Thoughts on which way to go? This is a trail vehicle only(but has to be streetable to get there and is plated)... and I've thought of turboing it to take E85 as well, since it's fairly accessible here, and can push some serious power.

 

[Wicked_Sludge]

if your willing to put the time and money into a rebuild, why not rebuild a 2.3 turbo motor? this way you can still drive your truck n/a while the rebuild is in progress...plus you get the turbo motors forged pistons and oil return line etc etc.

 

[Sevensecondsuv]

If you're going to wheel it, make sure you get a small turbo. A stock IHI is as big as I'd go.

 

[Speedwagon]

if your willing to put the time and money into a rebuild, why not rebuild a 2.3 turbo motor? this way you can still drive your truck n/a while the rebuild is in progress...plus you get the turbo motors forged pistons and oil return line etc etc.

Well I don't have a need to drive it, it's a 3rd vehicle. And I will likely spend more time on the slopes boarding, than on the trails wheeling this winter. So driving it is a non-issue.

My only concern going with a used turbo engine, is the status of the engine would possibly be unknown, and I might not have any recourse if I find out later down the line that there is something very wrong with it. Though I will have to look into it, and the availability of the turbo 2.3 in this area.

 

[Wicked_Sludge]

if your rebuilding it, who cares what condition its in? all your after is cores anyway. theres nothing a little machining cant take care of.

 

[Ric]

You should be able to buy a running TC or merkur for cheap enough. This way you know it runs and that you'll have everything you need.

My boost threshold wiht the ihi was 25-2800 or so rpm. Wouldnt be bad for a 4x4. I think it's a good compromise of economy and kick in the ass tq.


My miata uses a 15g and the threshold is 3800. Now that sucks.