I'm seriously researching 2 very big projects to do on my X, but I don't know which one I should do. I won't be able to do both for a while, but I'm hoping to do one this summer.

--5.7L V8 351W swap. With this I would also have to swap out tranny (I'm thinking C4), and t/c (maybe atlas??). This would be a little more $$, and a lot more work, but I'm ready for it.

--SAS D44 front and 9" rear. This would be a little easier, but since I would want a locker, 35's, new rims, and everything else, the $$ might be about the same.

Any thoughts?

If it was me i'd go for the SAS.

Unless you plan to remove the A/C and install a 3" body lift, I don't think you are going to fit a 351 in your X. The 351 has a taller deck height, and if you plan on using fuel injection, the only manifold available is off the F-series pickup. The plenum is way too tall to fit under the hood of an X.

Yeah, I have the 3" BL, and who needs the AC?:D

I have a buch of material and write-ups on people doing it on rangers, and it is very similar, so it should be possible.

It works out great, because I got the engine for free, so I need to use it somehow.

I say do the engine if you have it, and you already have the lift installed. It will be one rare X, and you'll have lots of power. Eventually, you can do an axle swap, and you'll have the muscle to move it.

Also, i hear the Atlas T-Case is worth every penny.

Gefinitely go with the 351 dude, that would kick ass. Has anyone done a 351 swap in an ex yet?

Has anyone done a 351 swap in an ex yet?

Not that I know of, but I don't know for sure. Advance Adapters has lots of info on these types of swaps for BII, Ranger and Explorer, so I would think someone has done it, but might not be on this forum.

It would definately kick some ass.

It's a 5.7 thing...you jeepers wouldn't understand.:D

I saw on here somewhere a few weeks back where a guy had a 351 in his x. Whoever posted it had taken pics but didn't have a whole lot of info.

Originally posted by FourXFred
Has anyone done a 351 swap in an ex yet?

I did some searching and found what I had previously posted about.

www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=63147&highlight=351

Maybe this will help out.

Well, darn I guess I'll have to do the axle swap for right now.

My friend just bought a Camero, which isn't all bad since he'll let me drive it :D , but now he won't be able to get a bigger engine for his Bronco.

The deal was that I would get his engine when he upgraded, but it will have to wait a while.

Unless I just try and find one at a junkyard. There are a lot of donor cars that have the 351W.

Do the engine first. I myself will stick with the 302 from a 1999 Explorer just to keep things simple. I think you'll be happy with the engine. Besides, you got it for free. Might as well take advantag of it!