4.0 to 5.0 swap

[jshafer]

I tried a quick search but I don't got much time on the computer so I didn't find anything before I gave up so sorry if it's out there.

I got a 1999 ford explorer xls with the 4.0/auto/4x4. It has 215,000 miles and it started getting antifreeze in the oil. I'm worried I did to much damage driving it with the contaminated oil and the high mileage.

I found a 5.0 engine/tranny/transfer case/wiring and computer from a 1998 explorer and would like to swap it. What problems will I encounter

Quick list of ? parts

motor mounts on frame
tranny mount
radiator
radiator shroud
driveshafts

The new motor has all the accessories and everything. Someone told that the 5.0 only came in awd and not 4wd so will that be a problem,if it is true.


Thanks in advance.

 

[Turdle]

You will also need the pats system-and gem module-ignition key and cylinder-
all from the same truck-
you'll also need to swith the fuel system over to return style-so the complete fuel tank woulld be nice to have-
In other words-a whole donor truck-

 

[jshafer]

Man I hate newer vehicles.

 

[Glen4X4]

and they did only come in either 2wd or awd.

 

[rwenzing]

Your swap will be easier if you can find a 99~2001 5.0L donor instead of the 98. Everything will bolt right in without the extra complication of swapping in the return system. In addition, many states will not register a vehicle with an engine from an earlier year. This varies depending on where you live.

Also, IMO, a complete donor would be much easier and probably cheaper than collecting individual parts - take it from someone who has done it piecemeal.

The 5.0 came in 2WD or AWD versions. The disadvantage of the AWD is that you will lose the low range of your current t-case. No problem on the street but it could limit your truck's capabilities if you use it off road. Also, AWD has some tire wear and fuel economy negatives. To overcome these problems, you could switch from the AWD case to a BW4406. Search E-F for several threads on that conversion.

 

[jshafer]

I just don't want to stick a bunch of money in this thing and this is the only donor motor I have found close to me. So I guess it is a no-go.

 

[CDW6212R]

You can make that a returnless 302 by simply using a 99-01 PCM, injector rail with injectors, and a matching PATS module. Those would be easier to do than swapping in a return line for the older system.

You can make it work either way, but be sure that you have matching PCM/PATS/keys/cylinders. Those are checked at each start up. I have an extra 99-01 lower intake complete. Your current fuel pump and regulator in tank is the same as a 99-01 V8 truck.

The GEM module must match your 4WD use, meaning if you take out 4WD then you need a 2WD or AWD GEM module. The AWD has no electronics, it is the same 2WD GEM as in any V6 2WD, or a V8 2WD(98-01 trucks). There are two GEM modules for all 98-01 Explorers, 4WD or not 4WD. Good luck,

 

[rwenzing]

You can make that a returnless 302 by simply using a 99-01 PCM, injector rail with injectors, and a matching PATS module. Those would be easier to do than swapping in a return line for the older system.

A few other items that would need attention for a 98~99 conversion:

• 99~01 2-wire VRS Camshaft Position Sensor to work with the 99~01 PCM (96~98 had the 3-wire Hall Effect sensor)
• 99~01 uses a different MAF with integral IAT sensor (98 and earlier MAF and IAT were separate and used different connectors).
• At some point, Ford changed the throttle body, TPS and connector. Not sure but I think this also happened at the 98 to 99 transition.
• 99~01 engine harness to match the 99~01 CMP, MAF/IAT and injector connectors.

 

[CDW6212R]

Very good Bob, Ford made a bunch of changes from 97 to 99 models. It's a mess to keep up with it all.