power train upgrading help

[t103190]

I'm getting ready to build up a replacement engine and transmission for my 98 sohc but I have a few questions that I need to figure out before getting an engine/ block.

1) are all sohc blocks the same? I.e. can I use a 2002 block?
2) I have a 4x4, is it necessary to seek out an engine with a balance shaft or can I use one without? ( balance shaft engines seem to be harder to locate and are almost twice the cost)
3) I will be doing some power adders in the build, any tips tricks or helpful advice to save headaches down the road?
4) while I don't plan on huge power and torque I want to do a bit to sure up the transmission too. What kind of upgrades are there for the 5r55e. I've searched and found some threads for building them, but I can't seem to find any actual links or part numbers for any transmission upgrades.

 

[2000StreetRod]

any long block

1. You can use any SOHC V6 long block from an Explorer, Mountaineer, Ranger, Mustang or even a Land Rover Discovery 3. The engine wiring harness, valve covers, oil pan, exhaust manifolds, harmonic balancer and more may differ between models and years.

2. Many members have replaced their balance shaft engines with ones having no balance shaft and have reported no problems.

3. External bolt on improvements will be small. I use $100 per rwhp increase for evaluation criteria. I installed a custom intake system with a 75mm racing throttle body, Lightning 90mm MAF sensor and a custom tune for about $500 and 5 rwhp. I installed a custom high flow exhaust system from the exhaust manifold outlets aft for about $1,000 and 10 rwhp. The only significant bolt on improvements comes from forced induction (turbocharger or supercharger) and I'm expecting 50 rwhp for about $3,000. Engine internal performance mods (heads, cams, displacement) are limited in availability and expensive even though the engine is used in the Mustang.

4. There are torque converter upgrades and some transmission upgrades that I'm not familiar with. Maybe other members will share information.

 

[t103190]

Thanks for the reply. As for the power adders, I already have an intake, custom exhaust, and an SCT tune on it. With the rebuild in going with stage 2 heads and a s/c (probably the banshee system).

 

[t103190]

Anyone else have input?????