How to Swap a KLZE for a KLDE Probe
KLDE-to-KLZE engine swaps in the Ford Probe are common for two basic reasons: The Japanese-made KLZE generates more power than a U.S. or European KLDE engine. And he KLZE has greater compression and better cams, thus providing greater acceleration and speed. Additionally, the swap-out of a KLDE for a KLZE in a Ford Probe GT is a bolt-and-go swap, meaning all the connections to the KLDE engine should fit the KLZE engine.
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Things You'll Need
- Gloves
- Eye protection
- Power drill with sockets
- Fluid containers
- Wrenches
- Car jack
- Jack stands
- Engine hoist
- KLZE engine
Instructions
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1
Put on gloves and eye protection.
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2
Disconnect the battery cables from the battery to prevent accidental shock.
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3
Drain as many fluids as possible, such as the oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid. Make sure the fluids are recycled according to local codes and regulations.
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4
Remove the parts from around the engine, so the engine can be lifted out of the body without damaging other parts. Label the connections to the engine as you go so you will know how to reconnect the engine later. Fuel lines, distributor cap, heater hoses and the power steering pump all need to be disconnected. As the fuel line is disconnected, drain the fuel into a container. The fuel can be reintroduced into the gas tank after reassembly. While most of the parts can be removed by hand or a wrench, a power drill with a socket set will make the job easier.
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5
Jack up the car and place jack stands under the front end. Disconnect all parts to the engine from beneath, including the exhaust system, radiators and pumps. Remove the motor mount. Drain all fluids from the engine. When unbolting the transmission from the engine, be prepared for additional fluid leakage. Continue with labeling connections as you go.
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6
Hoist the KLDE engine out slowly. Replace with the KLZE engine. Reconnect the parts from below and then on top. Replace fluids, including oil to the engine. Connect the battery cables last.
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7
Warm the car up for 10 minutes. Check for fluid leaks before taking the car for a drive.
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Tips & Warnings
Before considering an engine swap, examine the condition of the car as a whole. If the existing engine has a lot of miles on it, so does the transmission, power steering and electrical system. The plug-and-go swap to a KLZE engine may end up leading to a lot more part replacements, and that can become cost-prohibitive. You may find it cheaper to replace the car.
While a Ford Probe GT KLDE engine can easily be swapped out for a KLZE engine, the same task involving a four-cylinder model will require the replacement of a lot of the existing parts for GT parts.
References
Resources
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