how do I find out if this is possible?

[jennwv]

I have two Accords down and out from broken transmissions. The first is an 86 Accord LX 4C with around 130,000 miles. The second is an 89 Accord LXi 4C with around 250,000 miles. Since I have to change out the transmission on the 89LXi anyway, I figured I should try putting the 86's engine (b/c of lower mileage) and a matching rebuilt (or JY found) transmission into the 89 LXi. Is it possible these cars have engines that are not compatible? They look exactly the same to me.
I understand I have a lot of info to look up, etc. I need to know HOW to find out which engines are in my cars, if they are compatible, and how much work I'm looking at (relatively simple vs. lots of welding and very hard). I have the rest of the summer to do the actual work. I just need a starting point.

[ghettogeddy]

well your lx is a carbed engine most likley a a20a1 and your lxi is fi most likely an a20a3 it would be smart just to keep the engines in the cars there in and just fix the trany's on both sell the lx and put the money into the lxi thats just my 2 cents oh and we know your new to the board but theres a button in the corner called search learn it, use it, love it

[w261w261]

Junkyards have info on what tranny works with what engine, etc. Try calling one up and see what they say.

[2drSE-i]

the a20a1 (in the 86 lx) is less powerful, due to being carbeurated. the a20a3 (in the 89 lxi) is more powerful, because its fuel injected. other than that they are the same motors.