Hi there

I am going to buy a MKII Fiesta - probably a 1.1L petrol from 1987. The 1.6 diesel version is quite rare in Britain, so I was wondering if I can take the 1600cc diesel from a donor car which I have found and replace the 1100cc petrol unit in a Fiesta which is in much better condition. Do you know if this is mechanically possible ? And how much work is involved if so ? I wouldn't undertake the work myself, probably asking a local garage to do the job. It sounds a bit of an odd question as most drivers prefer the petrol engine, though I'm a big diesel fan and keen to organise the above. Many thanks guys in anticipation. Joe.

 

Since the second generation Fiesta Mark II (1983–1989) came with the 1.6L diesel engine, it should be an easy swap since you would have a complete donor car.

Engine, transmission, wiring, computer, fuel pump and such.

 

Thanks for your help. The couple of things that spring to mind are:

1) wheels - the petrol engined mk2 fiesta seem to have smaller wheels, would I therefore need to change these to ?
2) fuel tank - are there any alterations to be made here ?
3) exhaust - do you think this could remain as it is ?

Many thanks readers, in anticipation

Joe

 

1. The size of the tires should be OK. They may be smaller based on the package that was ordered for the vehicle. The gasser may have been ordered with a larger tire, or were replaced sometime during its life.

2. The fuel tank should be the same. Only difference that I can think of would be the filler neck may be changed. Diesel nozzles are normally larger, thus needs a larger filler opening.

3. The exhaust may be the same except for where it connects to the engine. I don't know what type of pollution control devises were required in your area for the 1987 year. If anything, if the gasser has a catalytic converter, it would most likely need removed for the diesel installation.