Need help with a crazy motor swap

[bdjernigan]

I have a 99 2wd XLT. I am looking for at least 350hp. Can it be done with the 4.0sohc? Was thinking about doing a regular 5.0 swap, then I thought about doing it supercharged. Then a buddy of mine suggested maybe a 351w motor. I know I will have to do the computer and wiring from other posted threads, but can it be done with the 351w. I figured that if anybody knows, that it would be the guys on here. Also was thinking about changing the trans, but havent desided to go with another auto or a manual. I know if I could do it, it would be awesome and fun. Please leave any input toward this as possible. Thanks guys....

 

[1AJeremyD]

Whatever you go with definitely send some picture!

 

[2000StreetRod]

351 windsor

The fuel injected 351 windsor engine uses a distributor so the crankshaft balancer has no trigger wheel like the Explorer 5.0L or the 4.0L. The PCM would have to be modified to work properly without a crankshaft sensor input. If you use the 5.8L PCM then the electronic shift 4R70W may not work properly. The accessories on the 5.0L are densely packaged on the Explorer compared to the accessories on the 5.8L. I doubt that everything will fit. To use the Explorer accessories on the 5.8L will require custom mounting brackets. The deck height of the 5.8L is more than 1 inch taller than the 5.0L. A custom exhaust would be required.

I suggest a 5.0L/4R70W swap for reliability, less complex and expensive installation, and performance options. You could get 350 hp out of a blown 4.0L SOHC but I doubt the 5R55E would last and the rear timing chain guide assembly could break at any time damaging an expensive engine.

 

[snoranger]

The deck height of the 5.8L is more than 1 inch taller than the 5.0L. A custom exhaust would be required.

I suggest a 5.0L/4R70W swap for reliability, less complex and expensive installation, and performance options. You could get 350 hp out of a blown 4.0L SOHC but I doubt the 5R55E would last and the rear timing chain guide assembly could break at any time damaging an expensive engine.

The oil pan is also deeper on the 5.8l. The oil pump is taller (3/4" or so) to clear the crankshaft. If you drop the 5.8l onto the 5.0l mounts the oil pump will almost hit the steering rack. So, between the taller deck height and the raised engine (to clear the pump and pan), your gonna need a taller hood.

I'm with Dale, stick a 5.0l (or a 347) in there. 350 HP out of a 5.0l isnt too hard to achieve. Unless you have a big budget and the time to figure out all the little problems your going to run into with the 5.8l swap. I hate to see projects that end up never getting finished because of lack of funds or time.

302 oilpump clearance:

351w oilpump clearance:

 

[HighRoad]

There is always a way..........

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=287478

 

[bdjernigan]

Thats kool. I dont even know if I could get to pass NC inspection anyways with the 351 in it. So I will go back to the 302 plans. As long as its around 300-350hp, I really dont care. My plans was for it to some like a tang anyways and I can still go with the XP-GT project. The only bad thing is all the guys I know work on everything but Fords. Its going to get done one way or the other. Thanks guys

 

[bdjernigan]

For some reason, I've been having a dream for the last couple nights about my XP. First I seen the paint job of black over orange with a H-D symbols with a supercharged 302 in it. I dont know about the paint, but the motor sounds good thou. Afterall, the supercharged 302 was in the XP8 with was limited to 150 Explorers. Thats a cool thought and since I actually have the time to do, that maybe the route I'm going. Dont worry guys, pics will be posted when I do it..... l8ter guys