RE: 88 5K NA I5 in 84 4KQ?

[glen <gpowell@acacianet.com>]

I had planned to bore an existing 2.1L 4KQ engine out to like 2.3 or 2.4L and raise the compression with the custom pistons that would be required as a result of the overbore. I also planned to install custom oversize valves and do some serious head work. This is all big bucks TRS. By starting with a 2.3L engine I can get the big displacement, high compression, piston squirters and also a big valve head essentially 'for free'. All I need to add is porting and polishing and a cam. Should be far less expensive and easier as well. I plan to use the 4KQ ignition, wiring, plumbing, CIS, EM and IM. That's my current thinkin.

-glen


Hi Glen,

You write:

<< Anyone got any BTDT installing a NA 1988 5K I5 in a 4KQ? >>

No BTDT's that I am aware of and I queried about something like this (NA 20v
was my thought) a year or two back. Not much in the way of replies.

<< Any general thoughts on the 'goodness' of this upgrade? >>

First thought is that the list of "donor cars" should include the 88 - 89 80q,
any 88 - 89 90 (q or not), and the 89 - 91 100 since thay all had the 130hp NA
I5.

<< Is the 88 NA I5 rated 130HP? >>

Pretty sure it did too along with the last of the CGT's. (I don't buy in to
the theory that the last 4kq's had it...). I owned a new 88 80q for about 35k
miles. It took nearly that long for the motor to "loosen up" and once it did
it was very free reving but still had a "ponderous" feeling to it compared to
the 4kq. Perhaps a heavier flywheel? Not sure... Since the conversion is kinda
"plug and play" it may be a good starting point to build a better engine from.
Not sure it is worth the trouble in stock form unless one needed to change
engines anyway.

I still feel that barring a turbo conversion that the NA 20v might just be the
right motor for a 4kq...though I never fully researched the idea. In that case
there would be ECU, engine compartment wiring loom, and perhaps exhaust issues
to contend with...not "plug and play" but perhaps less work than an MC or 3B
transplant.

Food for thought...HTH

Regards,

Mike Veglia