Yes, the rumors are true--the 2.3 (140 cid) motor in the 1983-86 XR7 has roots that go back to the 1970's Pinto engine. It's an OHC (overhead camshaft) engine, which was pretty advanced for early-'70's technology. It gets great gas mileage, runs pretty smooth, and idles good. It responds well to forced air (hence the turbocharging). Its compact size and light weight make your Cougar better balanced in the front, and with suspension modifications, you'll really pull through corners better than you ever imagined possible. What's lacking is more power, though, even with the turbocharger.

For engine modifications, the cylinder head can be heavily machined, or if you have the money, you can spring for the Motorsport competition aluminum head (M-6049-A230). List price is around $2,000, so think about that very carefully. Camshafts---take your pick, from mild to wild. Ford Motorsport sells 5 different cams for the 2.3 OHC motor, and even has a kit for roller followers, made especially for turbocharged applications (M-6252-A230). If you're going mid-range, then the M-6250-A234 unit gives outstanding results with decent idle. For high-end power (but rough idle), use M-6250-A238. The stock Ranger cam is also a hot swap. A high-volume oil pump (M-6600-B2) is also recommended. Hey, how about a long-tube header---try M-9430-A4 for the complete kit. A Ford Racing catalog or their website will have more information and specs.

Finally, there is also the possibility of turbocharger enhancements. Most factory turbo units can me modified to perform much better than stock, provided that you find the correct way and correct people. The magazine TURBO often has articles about the 2.3L Ford engine, and I'd say that would be a good source of information on that subject, as well as the NATO website and message board.

There are people that basically dedicate their lives to the 2.3 4-cylinder Ford motor. Tons of folks know just how to tweak these motors. In fact, in a closed-course race a well-prepped 2.3 will outrun 5.0's and 351's all day long. If autocrossing or road racing is in mind, then you've got a lot of help on your side---the trouble is, where do you find it? Here are some great places to start:

Esslinger Engineering
14320 Potrero
South El Monte, CA 91733
(626) 444-4919

North American Turbo Coupe Organization

TurboFord.org

Troy's 2.3 Information Page

It's also recommended that you check the COOL CATS Links page for current links to sites with more information on the 2.3L engine.

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