hey guys/gals,

just wondering if anyone knows of a comprehensive list of all engines that can switch out with my 84 se 2m4 2.5L I4 automatic. compatible, meaning that it wouldn't require a lot of work or modifications that would require a crackerjack pro (like throwing a v8 that would not normall fit or something like that). just looking for a nice 4 cyl or small v6 that could replace my original that is dependable and has a little better performance possibly too. want to know what will work so i can start shopping around for motors. thanks, -Darok

The comprehensive list of engines that will easily swap into an 84 is short. A 2.5 Iron Duke with distributor ignition.
There was no other engine option for that year model, so the wiring harness is not there for the 2.8 V6 that was offered in later years. To install a 2.8, you will need from a donor car, the complete wiring harness, a different fuel pump, exhaust system, mounts, ecm, slave cylinder possibly, if it's a manual, and probably a few other things I've forgotten.
With the price of gas, you might be better off keeping what you have.

ok remember MJ, i am a newb when it comes to Fieros and only a half ass and still learning mechanic...with that in mind, what is an iron duke 2.5 and how does it differ from my 2.5?

It doesn't. It's the designation of the engine you have in your 84se. 2.5 litres. Iron Duke is just it's name meaning it is cast iron as opposed to aluminum. Nothing else is a direct, cheap, and easy swap into that year Fiero. You can swap in a 2.5 Duke from an 85, and 86. After that, the 2.5 came without a distributor. Those are called a dis engine. It is equally difficult to put one of the later year dis engines into an 84, 85, 86 due to ecm, and wiring harness differences.
There are options, but none are simple drop ins.

[This message has been edited by maryjane (edited 08-15-2005).]

ok thanks MJ

A carb'd 2.8 swaps in pretty easy.. You have to fabricate some mounts but beyond that I've been finding hte project quite simple..

you've got my attention. when you say carb'ed, you are referring to a traditional pre efi carb engine? tell me more and give me a few examples please

Maybe what he means is what other vehicles have the fWD 2.5 duke. As I understand it not just any 2.5 duke will work in our cars. I think the water pump are one of the block issues. I would think any FWD duke would work for us, but RWD dukes like the S-10 have to at least have the starter drilled. What else has to be done to a RWD duke to work in our cars?