Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Modifications 3.0L Duratec What to do?

Here is my scenario. I spun a bearing some time ago (go figure). I presently have $2200 for the swap. I have around $300 every month to add to the fund. (But here is the catch) I am getting married in December. And the car originally was mine/still will be, but the is supposed to be for her. So it's mainly hers'. So as you can see I really won't be gaining much money for the project any time soon and time is running short. (sorry for the mushy talk.. lol ) Anyway, I found a 3.0 DOHC short block with 13k on the clock, for $250. Will just a short block (DOHC 3.0) even work for a swap? I was quoted a price of $2000 to do the 3.0 swap + the cost of the motor. My goal is to be boosted eventually. Should I... A.) Do the 3.0 swap and hope that it holds up to boost. B.) Buy low comp 2.5 pistons and get the corresponding work done. C.) Or do the 3.0 and get low comp pistons for it? (more money though and not exactly sure how much pistons will cost me). I also figured on needing an LSD, and possibly a fidanza F/W. But cost, and time is another story. However, I also know that when building a car you have three things to choose from: Cheap, Reliable, Fast.
But the catch is you can only choose two. Any educated input is appreciated. Non-educated input is accepted but will be taken in as per the level of the one inputting the information.

(sorry about the red not sure what is going on there but it won't change for me)

Thanks,
Smokeshow

FYI a short block will only get you the block, pistons, crank, and rods. If you get the short block you can do the hybrid by just putting your 2.5 heads on there, do a search for meathods on how to do this, but it can produce a good amount of HP if you do it right (225 to 250 Crank for just direct swap)

I think your best bet is if your going to go with a turbo or sc kit, then get some forged pistons. The stock piston ringlands dont seem to hold up to well to the cylinder pressure. However, your looking at well over $10,000 for all of the neccessary parts. Expect a lot more if you dont do the work yourself.

I vote just doing a basic 3.0L swap since your wife is getting the car.

If your plans are going to boost later, but on a budget, I say go w/ 2.5l w/ low comp pistons(I have some for sale if intrested, check classifieds). Upgrade the bearings, leave the rods and whatever else you can afford after that (heads, etc..).

Not totally sure but probably going to get those pistons from Brett (LivinSvt)hopefully.. Install those and new bearings and main seals and probably put an LSD in and call it a day for now. My L is taking up alot of my mod money right now. But that is going to slow down here shortly. 12's on street tires is enough for me on a daily driver.

Also, don't get me wrong it's basically her car. But I will be driving it to. And yes even at stock from the Contour was a fun car to drive. ( I am sure at some point you guys too remember those days) But a modded one... ah yes, now thats another story. So in saying that, I need to have some more gumption. Thanks for the input guys. Any more thoughts, ideas, angles on this is open for discussion.

Once again Thanks,

Smokeshow