help! head problems on 88 bronco ll

[jamesfreebersyse]

Can I install a 1989 2.9 v-6 to replace my 1988 2.9 that I keep having problems with? I'm tired of having problems with the heads.

 

[rookieshooter]

Moved post from Bronco ii Registry to Bronco ii forum.

 

[WNYBroncoBill]

James,

I believe the engine is the same, but the ECM operates differently on the 89 and 90. I believe the 86-88 operate off the MAP sensor and the 89 and 90 use a MAF sensor. If you swapped your induction system from the 88 to the 89 it would probably work OK with your ECM.

I chose to replace my 88 heads with the newer design. I obtained them from Alabama Cylinder Head and they work great. They have been installed for almost two years. The bosses around the studs are much larger than the 86-88 design, so this should prevent the cracking which was common on the earlier version.

Bill

 

[4x4junkie]

I think it might only be the latter production of '90 BIIs that use MAF (11-'89 MFG date & later) if they had it at all.
My '90 is a 9-'89 truck and it's MAP.

Agreed on swapping the heads, however if there's another issue at work here such as your block being out of spec or you have cooling system issues, new heads are not likely to help.
If the '89 engine is much newer (less miles) I'd say go ahead and do it. Any sensors or other accessories that are different between them you should be able to swap over.

You might also consider swapping a 4.0L in too, as it'll bolt up just the same (though it's higher torque could threaten harm your transmission though, I suggest getting the trans that is mated to it at the same time and swap them in together if you go this route). The 4.0's extra torque will make it less fatiguing to drive, as it doesn't need to be wound out so much with every shift.

 

[WNYBroncoBill]

Most likely thr root cause of the head cracking is overheating. Replacing the water pump and radiator at the time of the head replacement might be inexpensive insurance against another failure.

The Alabama Cylinder Heads have a machined portion of the front of the head with a temperature sensitive metal plug inserted in them. That way they can tell if the head has been overheated if there is a warranty issue.

I believe I paid around $550 for the heads with new valves and valve springs.

Bill