Just purchased a1990 B2-engine issue
Just purchased a1990 B2-engine issue
B2 has 131000 miles on it. Have found a marble rattling noise in engine when I hit 2500 -3000 rpm. Put a mechanical oil pressure gauge on it today. Idle about 800 rpm oil pressure is between 16-18 psi up to 45-50 psi at 2500 to 3000 rpm. at that rpm I hear this noise any idea what it is. I have been told could be connecting rods, timing chain or catalytic converter. The vehicle is really solid with no rust. Wondering if is worthwhile to rebuild or replace engine. And what engine would be best. Was told a 4.0 is best but than you have other issues with computer and wiring? This B2 was well taken care of but has issues hate to part it out or send it to the boneyard. Body panels all though out have no rust or damage whatsoever (almost unbelievably like new underneath) and interior is original with very minor flaws. Would like to know what the cost would be to update the drivetrain- new engine if needed. Has 5 speed manual transmission. Have some minor issues with other items. Always wanted a B2 and finally got one. I am a new member and looking forward to being on the forum. Any help and info will be welcomed. Thanks Ron
Re: Just purchased a1990 B2-engine issue
Yes, Yes, Yes it is worth putting a rebuilt or even a used engine in your 1990 B2. A decent used engine can be found for $500-$750 and a hi quality re-manufactured for $1600-$2000. Once done you have a reliable and economical vehicle that stands out and will last you for years.
I am in a similar situation right now. I replaced the heads in mine and had it running fantastic but the rings went, heartbreaking. I am going to swap the engine once I find a good one. I would prefer to put in a re-manufactured but I don't have the $2k required. Same kind of thing nearly perfect body & chassis. Interior is in great shape.
As far as which engine it depends on your mechanical ability and finances. I have owned 2 b2's an 86' and an 89', my Father owns a 90' that I know very well. The engine on the 90' went a bad a few years back and he had it rebuilt. The mechanic botched the job it hasn't run right since. I won't make the same mistake. I found a good 2.9 liter in an 88' Ranger that was rear ended. The engine has 84k miles on it. Going to go look at it and hear it run on Monday and thoroughly check it out. If I could wait to put the money together I would buy a re-manufactured and install instead, I just don't have the time or money to wait. There are 2 great Engine manufacturers on Ebay one is in Seattle the other in Phoenix. You can't go wrong with either. Search "Ford 2.9 engine" you'll find em'. A 4.0 would be great but I don't think it is worth the hassle for the minor power gain over the 2.9 liter. There some simple and inexpensive tweaks you can do to a healthy 2.9 liter to get the power on par with the 4.0 and get your mileage up to 20mpg.
When shopping for a used engine spend a lot of time inspecting the heads and any sign of overheating. The 2.9 factory heads warp or crack easily if overheated, even one time. I would not purchase a used 2.9liter unless I could see it run and inspect thoroughly. Sure that makes the hunting more difficult but once you find a good one your set. Use the money you save to make everything prefect.
Write back how it goes for you.
Later
I am in a similar situation right now. I replaced the heads in mine and had it running fantastic but the rings went, heartbreaking. I am going to swap the engine once I find a good one. I would prefer to put in a re-manufactured but I don't have the $2k required. Same kind of thing nearly perfect body & chassis. Interior is in great shape.
As far as which engine it depends on your mechanical ability and finances. I have owned 2 b2's an 86' and an 89', my Father owns a 90' that I know very well. The engine on the 90' went a bad a few years back and he had it rebuilt. The mechanic botched the job it hasn't run right since. I won't make the same mistake. I found a good 2.9 liter in an 88' Ranger that was rear ended. The engine has 84k miles on it. Going to go look at it and hear it run on Monday and thoroughly check it out. If I could wait to put the money together I would buy a re-manufactured and install instead, I just don't have the time or money to wait. There are 2 great Engine manufacturers on Ebay one is in Seattle the other in Phoenix. You can't go wrong with either. Search "Ford 2.9 engine" you'll find em'. A 4.0 would be great but I don't think it is worth the hassle for the minor power gain over the 2.9 liter. There some simple and inexpensive tweaks you can do to a healthy 2.9 liter to get the power on par with the 4.0 and get your mileage up to 20mpg.
When shopping for a used engine spend a lot of time inspecting the heads and any sign of overheating. The 2.9 factory heads warp or crack easily if overheated, even one time. I would not purchase a used 2.9liter unless I could see it run and inspect thoroughly. Sure that makes the hunting more difficult but once you find a good one your set. Use the money you save to make everything prefect.
Write back how it goes for you.
Later