I have a similar post elsewhere, but this seems like a better forum to ask. Can I replace my seized 2.5L Duratech with another (better/more reliable) engine? I have located a used replacement Duratech.
OK, I know the answer is complicated, based on what I've read and searched. I'm too busy rebuilding my 68 Chevelle to spend time tweaking this 95 Contour SE (Please don't flame me for liking Chevys too, I am also going to rebuild a Mustang as soon as I can talk my father-in-law out of it). The Contour was my daily driver and I loved it until the engine stopped at about 80K. I'm guessing that it's the spun bearing problem, inspite of excellent maintanence, and never racing the unwrecked, completely stock vehicle. Since I wasn't able to sell the car without an engine (except to the scrapyard for $350, aren't the leather seats alone worth more than that?), my daughter now wants the car, and I am considering putting a new engine in myself. Obviously, the easiest for a novice like me would be to find the exact same engine and replace it. I can do that. The second option would be to find a replacement engine that is NOT prone to spinning bearings, and make it fit to my automatic tranny (which has never had a problem). For this option, I am wondering if there is a 4-banger that could bolt onto the transmission? My daughter doesn't need the 6-cylinder. And can a Zetec work here?. The third option is to rebuild the engine with better parts, whether that means a 3.0L shortblock, or just better aftermarket rods and bearings if they are available. No one seems to like this idea from what I've read, because of the costs.
Please provide me with some opinions, and if you have time, a couple of sites where I can actually begin the process of fixing this car.
Last edited by Petes95NeedsHelp; 12/01/04 03:09 PM.
