98 Engine swap question

[KA3NXN]

Hi Gang,

Son and I have a 98 Explorer Sport with a 4.0 engine that has the "X" engine code. The engine is starting to give out, so we thought of dropping a V8 in her and maybe going with a police Interceptor or a modified 302. What are we into here? I know this has been done. The nice thing is that ours since it was purchased in Florida is only a 2WD. But we love this truck and want to keep her as long as possible. Or can the 4.0 be modified?

Jaime

 

[Spdrcer34]

Finding a totalled 5.0L Explorer is your BEST BET....and swapping the parts out. If you have both vehicles there, and the proper tools, it can be done in a weekend....everything but the driveshaft will be a stock piece. That will have to be custom made/modified from the stock unit.

Ryan

 

[KA3NXN]

Tools are not an issue. What most concerns me is, do I also need to swap out the computers and what about all the wiring harnesses? I've done a number of engine mods and swaps on 60's cars, but I have never done one with so many electronics and sensors.

 

[Spdrcer34]

If you have both cars there, it is literally a plug and play...You will take the engine, harness, and ECU from one, and put it in the other...

If you do it right, you can even have 2 complete running X's....and sell the one you don't want to recoup the costs.

Ryan