2.2L vs 2.4L "E" Visual Distinctions

[richemj]

Yes....I know, serial numbers and looking inside are the true ways to determine the nature of an engine, but can "E" gurus on the board post any outward visual distinctions between the 2.2L and 2.4L...e.g metal vs plastic air covers, etc. Decals are always deceiving.

Thanks!

[andyjboy]

If the engines retain their original mfi, the 2.2 will have magnesium stacks & the 2.4 will have plastic stacks.

If air cleaners are original the 2.4 will have a 'warm-up' valve as part of the 'snorkle' (circled in yellow below) but this is often removed:

[edmayo]

In addition to Andy's answer, the distributor clamping methods are different between 2.2 and 2.4. The 2.2 uses a pinch type clamp, the 2.4 has a slotted cast boss on the distributor that sits over a stud. Also I don't think the 2.2's had vacuum retard units on the distributor.