These engines are very smooth and do rev well although it’s easy to over-rev them too. For this reason most engines feature rev limiters although the Capri’s is safe to 6,000rpm. Since the con rods are the weak link, HD ARP con rod bolts are essential for over 6000 rpm. A con rod that has been stress relieved and shot peened can rev safely to 6500 rpm. An electronic rev limiter is a must have for any engine not fitted with one to prevent the consequences of over-revving. 2.8s are better catered for in terms of cams and heads. Our Stage 1 heads with a Kent V6T1 cam will give power to around 165bhp, whilst Stage 2, or better still Stage 3 with bigger valves, plus a V6T3 cam should see close on 200bhp. We can do 2.9 litre heads to order and, coupled with the relevant Kent cams, you should see at least 10 BHP up on the 2.8, all round. The most significant improvement you’ll see in this engine though is torque - 2.9s behave much more like the old Essex.