intimidator992002 said:
I'm mainly having problems with the bottom end. What brand are the bearings from advanced and should the main bearings be changed also? As for the valve springs what kind should i get? And lastly is 6800 too much for this engine I've tried 3rd gear but it just slows me down .I run on a 3/8th mile dirt track. I'm trying some taller tires to help me out.
Advance has sealed power bearings. Forgot just how cheap they are.
Sealed Power Rod Bearing Set - Standard
Part No. 4-1400AA
SOHC engine; A-Series aluminum bearings; Standard Size; Qty 1
Warranty 1 YEAR REPLACEMENT IF DEFECTIVE
Offer Price: $11.99
Check part number as per model year, there were some changes in journal size through the years. They should solve your bottom end issues. As for main bearings, id say they are not necessary. They tend not to wear nearly as rapidly due to lack of lateral pressure and all help to support one another because they're all on the say axis. Also, replacing the rod bearings can be done in the car, main bearings would require engine removal, not worth the effort. I doubt you will ever have a complete main bearing failure.
As for valve springs, they only known supplier at the time is escortfocus.com. They are not cheap but will help greatly. It has also been found that 2.3l 4cyl ford performance valve springs will work. Previously available from crane cams, but they have gone out of business. There may be other suppliers of these however i am not sure. I currently run a set of the crane 2.3l double springs with stock escort retainers and seats with no issue thus far.
I've found 6800rpm is not too much for the bottom end of the engine but certainly is for the stock valve springs. I also run a 3/8 mile track and tried shifting to third with no luck my first season. Honestly, your best bet would be to get the racing profile from isky $95, and a set of springs. You'd soon find your rev limiter just past 7k and you would be shifting to 3rd because you've got the power to do it.