Kanify

So I'm in the middle of doing a complete engine rebuild for my 88 2.5L 16V, after tearing it down I found basically everything needs being replaced, and the cylinder walls are completely destroyed, along with scratches on the pistons and the coating wearing off in areas. I found a donor 8V motor not too far from me that was pretty cheap, the guy said it came out of an 86 so I assumed it would be a late block, but after getting it home I found it has an early M44.02 engine code. I know there are a few differences between the early and late blocks, so the question is am I able to use the block with my DOHC head, and if I am good to use this block what parts am I not able to reuse from my old engine?

Gage

The first important difference to consider is the timing belt tensioner. The 4 valve engine uses a wider timing belt than the 2 valve engine and a tensioner pulley (also wider) that is fixed in position to the "automatic" tensioner body. The eccentric tensioner pulley of the early engine design is narrower to fit the 2 valve belt.
When sourcing a block and (used) pistons, pay careful attention to the dimensional tolerance group of each to ensure proper clearance between them.

I happen to have a very good condition, 2.5L, 4 valve short block assembly in my shop that I could part with if you are near the northeast US.

michaelmount123

Get Gage's 4V short block. It has the correct pistons, tensioner, cam drive gear on the crank, and the correct engine code. It's what you need.
MM

944M3

Sent you a PM.