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

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.