Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Modifications Duratec Performance Performance modifications to consider when replacing an engine

Hello. I have to replace the engine in my SE. Go here if you want to know why http://www.contour.org/cgi-ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic&f=3&t=006137&p=. Thanks again to all those who gave their input. I now know that the head gasket is blown and the rings are shot, according to my dealer. Never mind the fuel rail and wiring harness that were burned. I'm still not sure if I'm going to get a used engine or a rebuilt one. I'll make that question another post. But here's my question ...

It seems to me that I (my mechanic) should take advantage of the easy access that will be available to replace other parts when replacing the engine assembly. It seems that adding headers might be one modification that would be easier to do when replacing the engine and would give a lot of bang for the buck. What are your recommendations? And if for whatever reason you could make only one performance mod at this point, what would you say that should be? Thanks gents.

3.oh duratec perhaps

I've got a 2000 SVT engine with 13.5K on it for sale including computer wriing harness etc if you're interested. You'd need to swap out your fuel rail and get some 19lb injectors to do the swap but should be good after that.

Rick

Thanks guys. I'm starting to get the picture that rather than replace my burned up engine with a normal Duratec, I should consider replacing it with a 3.0 Duratech or an SVT Duratech (assuming I could afford to do so). I guess doing that type of engine replacement would trump replacing the headers or making some other performance modification, as I've asked about here.

Buckshot, thanks for the head's up again on your SVT engine, but unfortunately it's not in my budget. I need to keep the cost of the replacement engine to around $1,500, not counting installation. And I now know that means a rebuilt engine is out of the question. Based on some quick research I did last night, $2,000 to $2,300 seems like the going rate on a 3 year guaranteed rebuilt Duratech. A used engine, then, is the way I'll have to go.

Another question: If I could find a higher mileage SVT engine within my budget, would any competent engine shop consider installing it a no-brainer? Or should I plan on arming them with information about the differences between the normal Duratech and the SVT Duratech? How would you approach an engine shop with this potential project?

Thanks so much for your time and input, gents.

Lousecontour....check your PM's...