Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Modifications General Mods Engine Replacement Question

Hey guys. I�ve got what might seem like a dumb question to those of you who know your engines better than I do.

Here�s the deal. I have a 1996 Contour SE, with a four-cylinder. The car overheated the other day, and I had to have it towed into a repair shop. There�s a possibility the engine is blown (un repairable). I have a good friend (owns an auto parts store) who can get me a low-mileage replacement for about 550, "at cost." My mechanic would put it in for about 300 (he works cheap, as it�s his side-job).

So here�s the question. If I have to replace the engine, can I put a V6 under the hood? If so, the second question is whether the V6 is more reliable than the 4-cylinder?

Any input would be appreciated.

Sincerely,

Scott

The cost to swap to a V6 would be too much. As has been stated a gazillion times you'll need new subframe, tranny, PCM wiring harness etc, etc. Since you can buy an SVT for about 4-5k with about 100k on the clock swapping is retarded. You can pick up a V6 MTX for 2-3k.

Thanks...the car has 60,000 miles on it and is pretty clean... But still, it's not worth more than 3,000. So I think if I have to replace the engine, I'll stick with the 4-cylinder...

I think you explained it well... I see the point.

EDIT: n/m. Todd said it.

what about an svt zetec?

Here's a steal.

http://www.contour.org/ubbthreads/showflat.php?Cat=&Board=interests&Number=728241&page=0&view=collapsed&sb=5&o=2&fpart=1

Low mileage Focus Zetecs pop up on ebay from time to time for fairly cheap. Most are sold by wrecking yards and will offer some sort of warranty with them.