Ive done some searchs but mainly only found the swap done on older X's. Whats all needed to swap the V6 to a V8. I have a mustang motor so ill need some of the accessories. Is there any i can use from the V6? Just wondering if someone has any information on this. As far as i know i need the motor, tranny, and computer. But not sure which tranny i should use(daily driver) and what computer. Any information would come in handy or any links you can provide. Thanks

XLT

A V8 swap in a 2nd gen is quite easy, since the V8 was offered in the trucks from 96 on. Sell the mustang motor and buy a donor explorer V8, and just swap in everything that's different. If it was me, I'd try to get a hit/rolled vehicle to mooch off of. There will be very litle custom fab work required, unless you are 4WD, and then you have transfer case issues to worry about.

Why would the 4WD be a problem? The 5.0's came with 4WD so wouldnt that just swap right in if use the tranny/transfer case from one?

Why would the 4WD be a problem? The 5.0's came with 4WD so wouldnt that just swap right in if use the tranny/transfer case from one?

Here's the deal. The 5.0s and 4.0s had the same front axle, but different transfer cases. The V8 is an AWD system, meaning 1 speed and a viscous coupling t-case. There are no electronics or mechanical levers on our t-cases.

The 4R70W transmission used in V8 explorers is considered a "full size" transmission, also found in F150s, Expeditions, etc and has a 31 spline/6bolt output shaft/trans tailshaft adapter. The transfer case behind the V6's is the 25spline/5bolt deal found in the small 4x4 fords.

If you wanted AWD, just swap the whole deal in. Very very easy. If you want to retain 4wd, there are several options. The only proven method is to buy a $500 adapter from Advance Adapters, and open up the donor 4R70W and replace it's output shaft with the AA 25spline shaft, and the tailshaft housing with the custom one. However, I am currently working on trying to mate an Expedition's BW4406 transfercase to my V8, and if it works, will prove to be cheap by comparison and more heavy duty.

Another thing to think about with your swap. Many states require you to use a donor engine of the same year or newer as your vehicle to get it smogged/registered. Check your laws, or "befriend" your local inspector.

Thank you very much for the information. So what im getting so far is that i would the motor, tranny, and computer. Obviously i need exhaust which isnt a problem since i work for a mustang parts company. But i did find a 99 v8 truck that was rolled over i believe. Only want 2900 for it with 31k on it. Only problem is its in MO. Im in PA. But it might be worth it because i can make some of it back by parting out the truck and my v6 crap like motor and tranny and what have you. Any opinions on that idea?

XLT

Thank you very much for the information. So what im getting so far is that i would the motor, tranny, and computer. Obviously i need exhaust which isnt a problem since i work for a mustang parts company. But i did find a 99 v8 truck that was rolled over i believe. Only want 2900 for it with 31k on it. Only problem is its in MO. Im in PA. But it might be worth it because i can make some of it back by parting out the truck and my v6 crap like motor and tranny and what have you. Any opinions on that idea?

XLT

I think getting the whole vehicle is your best shot. You'll need a whole list of litting things too, beyond the engine, trans, t-case, wiring, serpentine accessories, radiator.... yada yada yada. Get the vehicle.