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(Guidance needed) i4 turbo fox build

  • Thread starter Thread starter Inlineturbo
  • Start date Start date Dec 12, 2019
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Inlineturbo

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#1
  • Dec 12, 2019
  • #1
So I have a 91 convertible fox with factory 2.3 non turbo, recently purchased 87-88 Thunderbird i4 turbo complete with all but computer unfortunately so my basic ? Is can I mod my factory 91 mustang com to run the turbo motor once installed also I'm wanting to run a compound turbo setup with a big one for top end thanks in advance
 

90sickfox

Wasn't a pretty sight...and I've got big hands
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#2
  • Dec 12, 2019
  • #2
The factory non turbo computer won't work. I'd recommend using a computer like a megasquirt or Stinger. MS3 based products are great. MS2 products will get the job done. I run MSPNP2 on my car. ( turbo 331 )

That little 4 banger really wakes up with a lil'more boost.
 
I

Inlineturbo

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#3
  • Dec 12, 2019
  • #3
Further more I plan on running intercooler an any suggestions on what the big turbo should be are appreciated , would like to stay with water an oil cooled on the big1 as well
 

a91what

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#4
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@stanglx2002 @droopie85gt
you guys have been down or are going down this road right now
 

a91what

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#5
  • Dec 12, 2019
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since i am an ECU guy let me say that you will want to run something that can handle more than the stock ECU can. at a minimum you will want to run a hotter ignition system, and the injectors needed for this project may quickly become larger than the stock ecu can deal with.
 
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Inlineturbo

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#6
  • Dec 12, 2019
  • #6
Such as ? For ecu/injectors The hp goal is 400-450 with the intercooled compound turbo setup like to be 20 25 lb boost ? Im new to turbo, first build anyway , but have a bit of general knowledge dos an donts basic setup install things (no tuning exp at all) thanks again
 

a91what

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#7
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Your working with 4 injectors so to make the same HP goal as a V8 you will need twice the injector size... I think the smallest size you could get away with is an 80lb injector on pump gas and a 100lb on E85.. assuming you will run a 90% duty cycle.

The fuel pump will need to be a 340lph to overcome the boost pressure and feed enough fuel.
 
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Inlineturbo

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#8
  • Dec 12, 2019
  • #8
Ok thanks what would u say about the stock sensors that were on the tbird I got them all but imma assume to they are minimal at best any suggestions about that
 

a91what

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#9
  • Dec 12, 2019
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That depends on what ECU you want to run, I mainly tune megasquirt so I am partial to their products. Sensor choice needs to match the ECU selection. I suggest new sensors in any build, most use gm sensors.
 
I

Inlineturbo

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Dec 13, 2019
#10
  • Dec 13, 2019
  • #10
Ok do u have any concrete reason a person should go with mega or is it a pref at that point , also is the system user friendly so to speak
 

a91what

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#11
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You can get twice the ECU for half the money, it is user friendly but with any ECU their is a learning curve. I prefer MS products as that is what i use most, Haltech is my second choice.
 
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Inlineturbo

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#12
  • Dec 13, 2019
  • #12
As to be expected I'm sure I'll have to learn it but ok thanks for advice
 
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Inlineturbo

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#13
  • Dec 13, 2019
  • #13
I'm looking at the megasquirt 2 839$ thru lmr
Says it has 5.0 based maps preloaded , is this system capable of running the 2.3 secondly does anyone have a base map for 2.3 turbo?
 

a91what

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#14
  • Dec 13, 2019
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no no no.... if you are going to spend money get one designed for your build, I assume you want plug and play yes? if so then you want to deal with Stinger Performance.

Stinger Performance Engineering - Plug & Play Tuning Solutions for 80's and 90's Fords

PiMP ECU's, Coil On Plug Kits for 2.3 &SBF & BBF, Wiring Harnesses, Exhaust Systems, FMIC Kits, EEC-IV Tuning Solutions.
www.stinger-performance.com

Look at the Pimpxs for the 2.3
 
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Inlineturbo

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#15
  • Dec 13, 2019
  • #15
Ok thanks info like that saves alot of headaches an $ an yes from what I gather I'm gonna have to spend to get what I need lol so might as well get something capable of what my long-term hp goal is
 
Reactions: General karthief and 90sickfox
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Inlineturbo

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Dec 15, 2019
#16
  • Dec 15, 2019
  • #16
Any insight on the the bigger turbo selection would be appreciated has anyone ran a compound setup off one of these inlines before thanks in advance
 
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Inlineturbo

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Dec 15, 2019
#17
  • Dec 15, 2019
  • #17
Here is the the candidate in all it's rusted glory
 

90sickfox

Wasn't a pretty sight...and I've got big hands
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#18
  • Dec 15, 2019
  • #18
For some reason your pic didn't post.

People used to run the Volvo 2.3 turbo head on the i4. Used to be the swap to do back in the day. They also used to use old Cummings dodge turbos. This is all info from the 90s. I'm sure there are better options out there now. I know guys were swapping the ranger 2.5 liter engines in them.

Don't know a whole lot about them but contributing what I do know.
 
I

Inlineturbo

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Dec 16, 2019
#19
  • Dec 16, 2019
  • #19
Repost of motor
 

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Inlineturbo

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Dec 17, 2019
#20
  • Dec 17, 2019
  • #20
This is the d.s.s. 331 roller stroker
 

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