Is It Possible To Change Pistons

dekoy411 · 09-08-2006

I have a 1986 mustang lx 2.3l n/a and i was wondering if it is possible to change the pistons to forged pistons so it could handle a turbo or a supercharger. If so what do you think the cost of it would be.

evintho · 09-09-2006

The only difference between a N/A shortblock and a turbo shortblock are the pistons and a turbo oil drainback hole in the block. It's very easy to rig a drainback hole into your oilpan. Pistons, on the other hand, can get expensive. Wiseco is a good choice and they're comprabable to JE, TRW, etc.

http://racerwalsh.zoovy.com/product/RWA1556_3

As you can see, with shipping and tax you're over $400! Or you can go with used stock pistons, which is what a lot of Turboforders do. Simply hone the cylinders and install new rings and you're good to go! And, it just so happens (shameless plug to buy my parts) that I have a set of used pistons and rods out of an '88 Turbo Coupe that would fit nicely in your '86 block. They're forged and have the dish for the 8:1 compression ratio you'll need.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v3...assemblies.jpg

They're in good shape and I'm asking $50 + shipping. I see you're in Fresno so that'll make the shipping cheap! LMK if interested.

dekoy411 · 09-09-2006

Thanks for the info and the offer i still have a lot of reading up to do about changing the pistons and everything before i actually do it. Im just planning ahead so if i decide to do it. Im kind of torn between doing this or getting a 5.0L.

Yan_Jin · 09-11-2006

Quote:

Originally Posted by dekoy411

Thanks for the info and the offer i still have a lot of reading up to do about changing the pistons and everything before i actually do it. Im just planning ahead so if i decide to do it. Im kind of torn between doing this or getting a 5.0L.

It would prolly be cheaper to Get a donor car and go for a turbo motor. 5.0's may have 8 cyl, but the turbo will more than make up for the difference...plus puttin a 5.0 in is alot more work. Re-routing the exhaust, firewall, fuel lines, brakelines, etc.

dekoy411 · 09-11-2006

I meant just buy a mustang with the 5.0l in it already. I dont plan on doing any of this for another year or so that way i can research it more and save up money for it.

ford-a-natic · 04-08-2008

Don't forget that the rods not only the pistons have to be changed, the stock rods won't hold up to too much boost also the head gasket and fuel pump will have to be updated, and then the greatest challenge of all would be the engine management, after more than about 6-8 lbs of boost the stock ecu will have a hard time keeping up with with the advance and retard parameters. There is way more to it than you think, and a lot more that I've not mentioned.I would suggest a ford thunder bird turbo coupe 2.3 complete motor and wirering harness with ecu, vain air flow meter....it will save a lot of wasted time money and effort.

b_chandler · 04-08-2008

Ford hasn't changed the rods in 2.3s since the motor's inception. There is no difference between N/A and turbo rods.

NavySVO · 04-09-2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by evintho

It's very easy to rig a drainback hole into your oilpan.

If you are going to go to the trouble of changing the pistons, the engine will be out of the car already. Drill and tap the block and do it up right the first time.

Quote:

Originally Posted by b_chandler

Ford hasn't changed the rods in 2.3s since the motor's inception. There is no difference between N/A and turbo rods.

You are correct Sir.