How can you tell the diff between a 2.5 and a 2.3 externally?

[dustball]

I'm supposed to look at a bunch of parts to buy tomorrow. I don't how you tell the difference between the two motors. Is there a different casting on the 2.5's? I don't know how to decipher(sp?) the date codes. Is that the only way to tell without takin the motor apart?

[Dirtman29]

Ford part #'s begin with a letter, D= 70s, E= 80s, F= 90s, the 2.5L did not come out til sometime in the 90s I believe, so if the OEM part# starts with a D or E its most likely to be a 2.3L. The letter willl tell you the decade, the second digit (it will be a number) tells you the year, E6 = '86, or D9= '79 etc.

On the 2.3L block, the # is located on the RF corner of the block just under the head. Ive never had a 2.5L so cant help you with that. Good luck, hope this helps.

[4b316]

The 2.5 block has a big"2.5" on the side of the block

[scoobydoofletcher]

the way you can tell is probably when you get your doors blowed off it was probably a 2.5 motor

[dustball]

Thanks forr the help guys. It hadd a BIG 25L on it as soon as i saw it. lol Thought that was a dead give away. Now i just need a small journal 2.3 block. thanks again.

[Dirtman29]

Where are you located, I have a 2.3L engine, still OEM needs rebuilt. Just the pan, block, & a stock head. $75 would take it.

[dustball]

I'm in northern california. I have 5 or 6 lg journal blocks that I can use with the spacers. I just wanted to try and find a block. On another note The 2.5 I got has tiny valve springs for the 7mm valve. Does anyone make an aftermarket spring for these?

[soonersublime]

raceeng.com

[JBV-HEADS]

If you are racing MRP that 2.5 head just won't produce enough power to run up front. I'm selling all my racing stuff so if you need something drop by Clay and Paquette in Yuba City. Call the shop first as I'm only in part of the time. Good luck,

Joe

[dustball]

Yeah I'm gonna be at mrp. I dont really wanna run the 2.5 head. Just tryin to put smaller guides and the 7mm valves in the D-port.
Thanks Joe. I'm only a few minutes from Clay and Paquette. What time and days are you usually there?

[JBV-HEADS]

I have no set time, I'm retired. Best to call 671-2091 and tell Chris you want to see me if I'm not there. Leave a number with him and we can set up something. Thanks,

Joe