I recently purchased a 2005 Tribute with the 2.3. When purchased I was aware that it had an engine knock. (I paid next to nothing for it). I have removed the engine and trans-axle and have the engine tore down. The number 3 connected rod bearing has spun. No big deal. Hear is my question/issue. I was unaware that the cylinder head bolts, the main bearing beam bolts, and the connecting rod cap bolts were all torque to yield bolts. According to the Chilton manual, these bolts cannot be reused and have to be replaced. I am finding it difficult to find replacements, short of going to a mazda dealership. Has anyone had any experience with rebuilding these 2.3L engines and re-using the head, crank, and rod cap bolts?

 

Assuming the 2.3 in your Tribute is the same as the 2.3 in the Mazda3, you will almost definitely be better off if you swap the whole motor for a 2.5 liter Ford Duratec. The Duratec is a virtual twin of the 2.3, has more power, gets the same fuel economy, and most importantly, has critical internal upgrades to the oiling system to make the engine much more reliable. Better still, the Ford motors are so plentiful in a junk yard near you, you can probably pick up a low mileage motor for less than $500.

 

I have a 2006 tribute with the 2.3 and a manual transmission. All wheel drive. I bought it cheap at auction but is sure it needs a new engine.
What Ford engine would be a direct bolt on or close to.
TIA

 

Assuming the 2.3 in your Tribute is the same engine as in the Mazda3 and Mazda6, then the engine you're looking for is the Ford Duratec 2.5.

 

8th letter in Vin is a Z.
What years should work?
Thank you!

 

My understanding is all Ford 2.5 liter Duratec engines will work.

 

Thank you Shipo