Which engine is best to "tune"

[johnski]

I have a 1996 sport with the pushrod engine. I can either rebuild this engine and "tune" it up in the process, find an OHC to "tune", or get a 5.0 and drop it in my sport (you don't have to tell me how much work it would be to drop the 5.0 in).

With cost, horsepower, durability, and difficulties being the deciding factors, which engine is the best to build.

Oh, I forgot to mention I'm gona keep it a manual 5 speed.

 

[Blee1099]

Honestly I'd do a v8/tranny swap. The 96 wasn't available with a SOHC but it would be cool to have one. Another issue with the v6 is the tranny.. Your 4R55E will be the weak point in the driveline.

 

[johnski]

I hear you. . . I think the that tranny was built by Mazda, and I have always had trouble with it.

Now about the V8 . . .
What would keep me from putting a 1996 Mustang 5.0 in? I know I would have to keep all of the emission equip. I can get the engine mounts from a salvaged explorer.

 

[Blee1099]

I hear you. . . I think the that tranny was built by Mazda, and I have always had trouble with it.

Now about the V8 . . .
What would keep me from putting a 1996 Mustang 5.0 in? I know I would have to keep all of the emission equip. I can get the engine mounts from a salvaged explorer.

Just get a 96 V8 Explorer.. Swap the drivetrain, wiring harness, etc. Section525 did that (I think)