What is the bore and stroke of a 2.3 Lima?
The bore is 3.68 inches and the stroke is about 3.30 inches, yielding roughly a 2.3-liter displacement. These figures are the most commonly cited specification for the Ford Lima 2.3 four-cylinder, though exact numbers can vary slightly by generation and market.
In this article, we examine the 2.3 Lima engine family, explain what bore and stroke mean for its displacement, and note where variations arise across different years and regions. This helps readers understand how the engine’s size and characteristics are defined in practice.
Context and history of the Lima engine
The Lima name refers to Ford’s inline-four family introduced in the mid-1980s, widely used across compact to mid-size Ford vehicles and some Mazda collaborations. The 2.3-liter version powered a range of cars and light trucks, including entries like the Escort/Tempo family, Ranger pickups, and other models over various generations. As with many long-running engine families, bore and stroke were tuned across years and markets to suit emissions, performance, and packaging needs.
Bore and stroke specifics
Below are the commonly cited bore and stroke figures for the 2.3 Lima, with notes on scope and variations.
- Bore: 3.68 inches (93.6 mm)
- Stroke: 3.30 inches (83.8 mm)
- Displacement: approximately 2.30 L (2,300 cc) across four cylinders
These dimensions, when combined, produce about 2.30 liters of displacement. It’s important to note that some early or region-specific variants of the Lima 2.3 may show minor deviations in bore or stroke, so always verify the exact specification for a given vehicle year and market.
Generation notes
In practice, enthusiasts and repair guides often cite the 2.3 Lima’s core dimensions as a reference point, while recognizing that later revisions or market-specific models can exhibit small differences due to manufacturing tolerances or regulatory requirements. When sourcing parts or performing a rebuild, checking the vehicle’s VIN-era documentation or official Ford service specifications is advised.
Summary
The most commonly referenced bore and stroke for the Ford 2.3 Lima engine are 3.68 inches and 3.30 inches, respectively, yielding about 2.30 liters of displacement. While that pairing is widely cited, variations can occur by year and market, so confirm the exact specs for a specific vehicle before ordering parts or performing any precision work.
What is the difference between the 2.3 L and 2.7 L engine?
The Ford 2.3L EcoBoost is a 4-cylinder engine that offers a balance of power and better fuel efficiency, while the 2.7L EcoBoost is a V6 engine with significantly more horsepower and torque, making it better for performance, towing, and hauling. The choice depends on priorities: the 2.3L is more cost-effective and fuel-efficient, while the 2.7L provides a more powerful and spirited driving experience.
You can watch this video to compare the performance of the two engines: 52sBuckle Up ButtercupYouTube · Jul 24, 2023
| Feature | 2.3L EcoBoost | 2.7L EcoBoost |
|---|---|---|
| Engine type | Inline 4-cylinder turbo | Twin-turbo V6 |
| Performance | Horsepower: 270-300 hp Torque: 310-325 lb-ft | Horsepower: 330 hp Torque: 415 lb-ft |
| Fuel economy | Better (approx. 2 mpg higher) | Lower (approx. 2 mpg lower) |
| Best for | Everyday driving, fuel economy, cost-effectiveness, and those who might tune it | Heavier towing, off-roading, and a more powerful driving experience |
| Cost | Less expensive upfront | Approximately $2,000 more upfront |
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2.3L EcoBoost
- Pros: Lower initial cost and better gas mileage.
- Cons: Less powerful, can feel sluggish with heavy loads, and tuning can be necessary to keep up with the 2.7L.
2.7L EcoBoost
- Pros: Significantly more power and torque for better acceleration and towing, and feels more robust for demanding tasks.
- Cons: Higher upfront cost and lower fuel economy.
This video discusses the power difference between the two engines: 58sIAG Off-RoadYouTube · Jul 4, 2022
To decide, consider how you will use the vehicle. For daily use and fuel efficiency, the 2.3L is a great choice. If you plan on frequent towing or want maximum performance, the 2.7L is the better option, despite the higher cost.
How much horsepower does a 1996 Ford Ranger 2.3 L 4 cylinder have?
112hp
Powered by a 2.3 4 Cylinder producing 112hp and connected to a 5 Speed Manual transmission.
How much HP can a 2.3 Lima make?
The maximum horsepower for a Ford 2.3L Lima engine varies significantly depending on whether it is naturally aspirated or turbocharged and the extent of modifications. Stock, the naturally aspirated versions ranged from about 90 to 112 hp, while turbocharged "Lima" engines can reach over 700 hp at the wheels with extreme modifications. The newer 2.3L EcoBoost engine has production models around 300-332 hp, with performance kits pushing it past 330 hp.
Naturally Aspirated 2.3L Lima
- Stock: The 1.12-1.12 hp range shows that this engine was not originally designed for high performance.
- Modifications: With a carburetor, mild cam, and stock valves, this engine can make around 155 hp.
Turbocharged 2.3L Lima (Original TurboFord Engine)
- Stock: With basic bolt-on modifications like an intercooler, exhaust, and an LA3 conversion, it can reach about 300 hp.
- Modifications: The stock bottom end is robust and can handle well over 450 hp at the wheels. With forged pistons and an aftermarket turbo, 500 hp is achievable, and extreme builds have exceeded 700 hp at the wheels.
2.3L EcoBoost (Modern Engine)
- Stock: Most modern 2.3L EcoBoost engines in vehicles like the Mustang or Ranger produce between 270 and 310 hp.
- Modifications: Performance tunes can increase horsepower to around 330 hp, and aftermarket kits can produce even more power. Some extreme builds have reportedly exceeded 800 hp, as shown by this YouTube video from Livernois Motorsports.
What is a Ford 2.3 Lima engine?
2.3 (LL23)
This engine has also been known as the Lima engine, after the Lima Engine plant in Lima, Ohio, where it was first manufactured (it was also manufactured in Brazil starting in 1974). In 1979–80, a draw-through, non-intercooled turbo version was produced for Mustang Cobras and some Capris.
