How much power for C3 auto 2 litre Pinto

[Ramo]

Hi There,

I have 77 Mk2 Escort 2 Litre pinto mated to a C3 Auto. I want to increase the power to 150/160 BHP, but was told if I increase the Gas flow throught the head that it would reduce the vacuum pressure to the point where the Auto box wont change gear properly.
A)Is this correct.
B)How far can I go before it causes issues.

The reason is I'd like to sort the engine out first and when I can afford it I'll do the 5speed manual gearbox conversion.

Thanks for any input

[oemdenied]

I don't know the answer im afraid but what I do know is the money it will cost you to see that power out of the pinto you could buy a 2L zetec, fit it and get more than that power with just a set of webbers bolted to it.
Obviously you wouldn't do that if you wanted to keep it original looking but thought id make you aware of the option as a lot of our customers come in wanting pinto tuning then leave on the hunt for a 2L Zetec engine. Seems its not a very common conversion in Australia but in Europe its now overtaken cosworth YB conversions as everything to convert is available off the shelf and costs half the money a YB does.

[xlcapri]

Wouldn't it cost less to do the manual conversion than increase power to what you want ? A manual 4cyl stock will be more fun than a modded 4 cyl with a ****** auto.

[Ramo]

I Think your right. Will the standard 4 speed go straight into the tunnel with no mods to Auto shift hole and Gearbox mounts? I know will have to source bell housing clutch and clutch cable etc Anything else?

[Ramo]

oh and flywheel!