Engine recipe: Ford 2300 SOHC circle-track checklist

The old Ford 2.3L SOHC is still a race winner. This is the checklist of parts we keep going back to when we build one.

The Lima 2.3L has been racing for decades, and the list of what goes wrong is short and well known. This checklist covers those weak points with parts we make and sell.

The short block

Choose a finished 2336cc, 2349cc or 2542cc Stage 3 shortblock, assembled and machined in our shop.

Timing, the part that ends your night

• H.D. timing belt tensioner. Read why the OEM one fails.
• Round adjustable cam pulley and a fresh timing belt.

The shaft that drives your spark and oil

• Billet intermediate shaft kit with its bronze gear.
• Oil pump driveshaft and an oil pump shimmed for increased pressure.

Bearings, studs and seals

• Main and rod bearings, Clevite tri-metal.
• ARP head stud kit, oil pan gasket, rear main seal.

Valvetrain and cooling

• 14mm lash adjusters (you need 8) and the rocker arm tool.
• Dual valve springs for solid roller cams.
• Billet aluminum water pump, if you are on an OBD1 engine.