Will a 86 head run good on a 91 block?

[Rangerrr86]

I was given the wrong information when I bought a newer engine. I was told it was a 86 but come to find out it had the 8 spark plugs (my fault for not looking). My original head is still good so I want to put it on the new engine I have? Need help , thanks

 

[RonD]

Have a read here, scroll down to the head section: http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/4cylinders.shtml

8 spark plug headed started in '89 and these didn't have distributors
'91 should have the distributor hole and gear though, but can't say for sure

 

[saskbill]

Actually could you clarify what engine was in the 86. Was it a 2.0 or a 2.3? Carbed or fuel injected?

Presumably the 91 is an injected 2.3

 

[Rangerrr86]

The engine in the 86 was a 2.3 fuel injected. Having a hard time finding another engine in my area ��

 

[saskbill]

Have you checked out late 80s Mustangs as possible head/engine donors?

Anyway, since the original engine was FI, you should have all the parts/wiring/sensors you need. Set them side by side and check it out - if there is a hole and gear to run your distrib, you should be good to go!

Good luck

PS: FWIW, I believe the stang 2.3s didnt get 8 plugs until 1993: (Edit: and I'd be wrong about that - 91 to 93, apparently)
http://www.allfordmustangs.com/forums/2-3l-talk/87135-1993-mustang-2-3l-why-8-spark-plugs.html

A relevant thread (though it kinda got hijacked in the latter half) pretty much gives the thumbs up to older 4-plug head on newer block:
http://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/595513-help-with-engine-swap-2-3-4-plug-to-2-3-8-plug.html

Lastly, a maybe foolish thought - what, if you are able to mount your distributor on the 91 block/head (and it will drive the 91 oil pump) would happen if you simply connected 4 of the 8 plugs (1 per cylinder, natch) and left the others as dummies? Apparently the later intakes covered up the distributor area, but if you're going to be reusing your 86 intake anyway...)