I'm looking for a source of information about the interchangability of 2.3 crankshafts. My near term need is to find out which crank will fit a 79 turbo motor. I can locate a crank for 82-88 2.3, 84-85 2.3HSC, and 86-92HSC as well as a 83-88 2.0. I'm guessing that the 82-88 2.3 would work.

Is there a source on on-line information about these engines? I've done a web search but there's nothing very specific. Wikipedia has confusing information, for example.

Thanks for any help you can offer.

 

http://www.esslingeracing.com might have some info for you,,I just love these little motors,very durable,one of fords best

 

The earlier one would work fine. The later ones have a larger main journal diameter, which is the same as the 2.5.

Yes, it's tough to find much info on these motors online, for some reason. Even Esslinger's site has just a smattering of tech info. Their catalog has a decent amount of tech info however, though mostly geared towards racing modifications and parts applications.

 

The early 2.3 cranks is a large journal and on the rear a crank oil slinger for a 2 piece rear main seal.

Then came the 1 piece rear main seal and that crank is a large journal but without the oil slinger. Which, I think, is what you need.

Finally there's the late model (early 90's?) 2.3 crank which is a small journal (less bearing HP lost) crank and again with the 1 piece rear main seal....

 

Thanks to all for the replies. I think I understand the differences now.

 

Figures I got it backwards...that's dyslexia for ya! I knew I should have double checked before I posted that.

In the future, don't listen to me...

 

No problem....been there, crash it there too!

During a practice day at Irwindale Speedway, a rod let go. Well, I was in the top ten and wanted to try tp make the next race.

My race engine builder went to work getting the parts and machining work done. It was together & in the car very late Friday night (OK, early Sat. morning) got some sleep......came out to finish hooking up everything.

Fired it up for the first time and oil pouring out of the rear of the engine!

Haste makes waste......

We learn this lesson the hard way....a mid 2.3 crank (no oil slinger) in an early block (needs a oil slinger on the crank) and it pours out the rear main, even a new set of them.....

Missed the race.......

 

I hate it when that happens...I had the points lead when I lost a rod during practice, (2.0 engine) two races left in the season. No back-up motor but I was able to borrow a car for the night. The slowest car on the track. I wound up losing the championship by 8 points.

 

HSC crank will definately not work. I think the small journal cranks started appearing in 1989-1990. Don't quote me on that though!

 

You're very close. '90 was the last year of the large journal crank, the small journal appearing in '91.

 

The small journal actually first appeared in 89, in some models. The large journal was done during the 90 model year.

 

And...just because it has the cast over fuel pump hole, doesn't mean it is a small journal 2300 block and crank. Ask who "THOUGHT" they had a small journal engine for their next race engine......