Ford V8 engine conversions into Bronco Ils, Ranger pickups& Explorers have become very popular. Advance Adapters has been pioneering, conversions for these vehicles for well over l5 years.  We've strived to research every possible problem or difficulty you might encounter when converting your vehicle.

The parts we manufacture are available for small block Ford V8s retrofitting stock engines while keeping the stock transmission or installing a new transmission.  Because of the diversity of applications, we do not offer complete conversion packages.  We have grouped the conversion components by application.  Many of our components are necessary when converting your engine and or transmission.  Items such as exhaust and radiators can be modified or sourced elsewhere.

General Conversion Information:

The Rangers & Bronco IIs were first introduced in 1983, and come stock with either a 2.8 V6 or 4 cylinder.  They later came equipped with a 2.9L, 3.OL or 4.OL V6 engine.  Ford used various transmissions.  The manual transmissions consisted of the Toyo Koygo, Mitsubishi or Mazda.  These transmissions are all light-duty 4 & 5 speeds.  The automatics Ford used were the C3, C5 and A4LD.  The conversion components we manufacture fit all Bronco II & Rangers.  Currently, engine conversions using our components have been performed on Ranger pickups as new as 1997.

In 1991, the Ford Explorer was introduced, retiring the Bronco II models.  This vehicle came stock with a 4.OL V6, and the A4LD transmission.  The adapters we manufacture fit Explorers 1991-94.

Many questions arise when considering any engine swap & or transmission swap.  Some of these questions include: Year & size block to use, transmission choice, transfer case & axle strength, suspension requirements, body lift, cooling, exhaust, etc. We've tried to address as many of these questions as possible.

Tools Required:

These vehicles utilize most metric fasteners.  The engine is from Germany and the transmission is from Japan.  Therefore, it is suggested that before you begin your conversion, you should obtain the proper metric wrenches to ease the removal and installation of your new engine and transmission.  In addition to these tools, you will need an engine hoist and torque wrench and the capability to drill 1/2" diameter holes.  These conversions can be accomplished without welding or cutting.  However, in some cases, modifications may be required.  We recommend that the individual Ford shop manuals be obtained for torquing and electronic wiring specifications.

Engine Selections:

First check your local Department of Motor Vehicles for smog & engine requirements.  Certain states, such as California, require the same year or newer engine as the vehicle. (The engine should be complete, retaining all smog equipment).  The most recommended engine is the Ford 302.  If your engine choice is a 351 Windsor, extra consideration should be given regarding exhaust clearance, and a special oil pan must also be purchased.

Ford 289 V8 Engines                 Seldom used

Ford 302 V8 Engines                 Most popular

Ford 351W V8 Engines              Difficult (oil pan & exhaust problems must be considered)

Ford 360, 390, 351 M & 400M     Not available

Ford 429 or 460 Engines            Not available

Stock Transmission Selections:

On some Ford stock transmissions we have listed a transmission identification code.  This number is found of the drivers side door of your vehicle.

C5: The C5 was used in Ranger/ Bronco 11 vehicles 1984-85.  It has the same dimensions as the C4.  If you have the C5, you simply need to change your bellhousing, torque converter and valve body from a C5 V8 application.  This is to prevent having to bother with the computer module.  Failure to change these parts will cause the torque converter to lock up.  Some customers have told us that R is cheaper to obtain a C4 transmission and install the C5 tailhousing & output shaft into the C4.  Either one of these options works well.  The original shift column linkage can be retained with some slight modifications.

C3: The C3 is identified by a 'W transmission code.  The overall length of this transmission is 24'.  We do not offer any adapters to retain this transmission.  If your vehicle has this transmission you will need to select one of the Ford transmissions that we offer transfer case adapters for.

A4LD:  The A4LD is identified by a 'T' transmission code.  The overall length of this transmission is 28.687". We do not offer any adapters to retain this transmission.  If your vehicle has this transmission you will need to select one of the Ford transmissions that we offer transfer case adapters for.

The following transmissions are all stock 4 & 5 speeds that Bronco II and Ranger vehicles might have been equipped with.these transmissions are considered light-duty.  We do offer an adapter plate to fit most of these transmissions to a standard Ford bellhousing.  We've had customers experienced both good & bad results when retaining the stock manual transmission.  Some considerations, with regard to engine size, tire size and driving habits, should be addressed when retaining these stock manual transmissions.

Toyo Koygo 4 speed: Transmission code "X", with an O.A.L. of 24".  We offer a bellhousing adapter to retain this transmission.

Toyo Koygo 5 speed: Transmission code "5", with an O.A.L. of 25.937. We offer a bellhousing adapter to retain this transmission.

Mitsubishi 5 speed: Transmission code "D", with an O.A.L. of 28.687". We offer adapters to retain this transmission.

Mazda 5 speed: This transmission can normally be found in late model vehicles 1988 & newer.  The bellhousing and transmission are intrical (one piece).  We do not offer any adapters to retain this transmission.

The 4 & 5 speeds listed above (that we offer adapters for) will require the following components:

Adapter Plate:

The kit includes the adapter plate, bellhousing index retainer, pilot bushing & necessary hardware.  This adapter plate bolts to the front of the stock manual transmission.  This allows a standard Ford V8 bellhousing to be mounted to your stock transmission.  When using the original transmission, it is best to obtain a late model (1984-87) Fl50 bellhousing. This bellhousing utilizes an external slave cylinder that works well with the Bronco II & Ranger master cylinder.  This bellhousing was only used with the 164 tooth flywheel.  This will cause problems with tunnel clearance.  A body lift is normally recommended.  The 4 or 5 speed transmission will need slight modifications to the input shaft pilot tip, clutch splines & stock release bearing retainer.  These modifications are noted on the instruction sheet provided in this kit.

#E4TZ-7505C     F150 Bellhousing     #E4TZ-7A564A    Ford Slave Cylinder

#E4TZ-7A544A  Slave Cyl. Bracket    #E4TZ-7515C      Release Lever

#E4TZ-7513A     Dust Boot                 #E7TZ-7007A      Bellhousing Cover Plate

*Other Ford bellhousings can be used, but you will need to fabricate a slave cylinder bracket.

Clutch Requirements:

These stock transmissions all utilize the same length & spline count on the input shaft. If you are using the F150 bellhousing, the following Centerforce clutch components work well on this application. 

CF260000 - Centerforce 11" Pressure Plate (bolts to flywheel with 3 sets of 2 bolts)

CF360049 - Centerforce 11" Pressure Plate (bolts to flywheel with 6 evenly spaced bolts)

384070 -     Centerforce 11" Clutch Disc 1" 23 spline (same as a Dodge disc)

N1714 -      Clutch Release Bearing

Transmission Upgrades With V8 Engines:

Since you are not able to retain many of the stock automatic transmissions, and some stock 4 & 5 speeds are marginal up against a V8, we manufacture several transmission to transfer case adapters.  These adapters are designed around transmissions that were originally coupled to a Ford V8 engine, alleviating the need for a bellhousing adapter.  Most of these adapters will allow you to retain your stock transfer case in its original location, thus eliminating the need for driveshaft modifications.  These transmission upgrades kits are based around good, reliable Ford transmissions capable of handling V8 horsepower and torque.

Bronco lIs, Rangers & Explorers used three different transmission assembly lengths between the stock manual & automatic transmissions.  Most of the adapters that we manufacture will give you 2-3 adapter options to directly replace your existing transmission.  Some of the new transmission assembly lengths are not exactly the same overall length as stock, but the driveshaft and crossmember will normally compensate for this.  We recommend that you measure your existing transmission assembly and compare this measurement to the adapters below.  All of these adapter housings are drilled to utilize the factory rubber crossmember mount.

C4: The C4 automatic transmission is the most commonly used transmission.  It is durable and very easy to find.  We advise that you select a 1970 or newer C4 tranny due to design changes.  The C4 has a removable bellhousing, so make sure the bellhousing pattern is compatible with the new engine and flexplate.  We recommend a 157 tooth flexplate.  Be sure the starter motor engages the flexplate correctly with this bellhousing.  The C4 is 17" long.  Combined with the new adapter length, use the best adapter suited for your application.  Kits include a new 25 spline output shaft, adapter housing, vent cap & necessary hardware.  These adapters have provisions to bolt the stock transfer case shifter bracket in its original location.

P/N 50-8400 -    C4 to Borg Warner 1350 T/C.  Adapter length of 6.812".

P/N 50-8401 -    C4 to Borg Warner 1350 T/C.  Adapter length of 11.5'.

P/N 50-8402 -    C4 to Borg Warner 1350 T/C.  Adapter length of 8.75'

AOD: In 1980, Ford introduced the AOD (automatic overdrive) transmission.  Most customers whose vehicles were equipped with a stock overdrive transmission, wish to retain their overdrive capability for fuel economy.  For this reason, this transmission has become very popular.  The kits we manufacture are for both the early and late version AOD transmission.  The AOD is 20-1/2" long.  Combined with the new adapter length, use the best adapter suited for your application.  This kit consist of a new 25 spline AOD output shaft, adapter housing and necessary hardware.  The casting has provisions for bolting the stock transfer case shift linkage.  Some modifications on this linkage may be necessary for casting clearance.  For more information on this transmission, refer to the article in this book titled A-OK AOD.

P/N 50-8403 - AOD (up to 1987) to Borg Warner 1350 T/C. (Adapter length of 9")

P/N 50-8404 - AOD (1988 & up) to Borg Warner 1350 T/C. (Adapter length of 9")

P/N 50-8405 - AOD (1988 & up) to Borg Warner 1350 T/C. (Adapter length of 5")

GM700R-4 Transmissions:

The General Motors 700R-4 has a case length of 23-3/8". Our bellhousing adapter is designed to fit the 700R case that was previously connected to the 2.8L V6. Part No. 712592 comes with the bellhousing adapter plate, torque converter adapter ring, crank bushing, necessary hardware, and the instructions to wire the neutral safety switch and perform the necessary vehicle modifications. The exhaust requires some modifications, and you will be required to install a torque converter lockup kit and a TV kickdown cable. The TV cable and bracket for this application are available from Bowtie Overdrive (Tel# 760-947-5240). This adapter can be used for either a 2WD or 4WD vehicle. When using this kit in conjunction with P/N 50-8410, no driveshaft modifications should be necessary. If you are using this kit for a 2WD vehicle or 4WD application that does not use the stock transfer case, driveshaft modification will more than likely be necessary.

Full Size Ford 4WD Transmissions:

Ford full size 4WD trucks always used the same configuration on the stock transfer case adapter.  Whether the stock transfer case was a NP205, NP203, NP208 or Borg Warner 1356 etc., the back end of the stock transmission with the stock adapter housing always looked the same.  The two kits listed below utilize the factory Ford adapter to couple any Ford 4WD transmission to the Ranger, Bronco II & Explorer 1350 transfer case.  These Ford transmissions had either a 28 or 31 spline output shaft.  Due to the various Ford transmission lengths, driveshaft & crossmember modifications are normally required.  These kits include a spud shaft that couples the stock transmission output shaft to the 25 spline transfer case, the adapter housing, and the necessary hardware.  The castings have provisions for the stock transfer case linkage.  Modifications will be necessary on this linkage for proper fit.

P/N 50-4501 - Ford 4WD transmission 28 spline to Borg Warner 1350 T/C.  Adapter length of 4"

P/N 50-4502 - Ford 4WD transmission 31 spline to Borg Warner 1350 T/C.  Adapter length of 4".

T5 5 Speed:

This transmission is 15-1/8" long (with a 7" bellhousing).  This transmission was used in Mustangs until 1995.  When purchasing a T5 transmission or bellhousing from a Mustang, be aware that the 1994-95 T5 transmission input shaft is 5/8" longer than a 1984-93 transmission.  The Mustang T5 clutch mechanism is cable operated, whereas the Bronco 11 / Ranger clutch mechanism is hydraulic.  A new hydraulic slave cylinder will need to be obtained and fabricated to fit this bellhousing.  These two kits include a new Borg Warner T5 output shaft, adapter housing and a new l7% overdrive gear.  Also included is a spud shaft coupling the Borg Warner output shaft to the 25 spline transfer case, a custom adapter housing, and necessary hardware.  Provisions for your stock transfer case shifter linkage have been provided on this custom housing.  When installing this linkage, modifications are required.

P/N 50-1802 - T5 to Borg Warner 1350 T/C.  Adapter length of 4-1/2".

P/N 50-1803 - T5 to Borg Warner 1350 T/C.  Adapter length of 6-1/2".

We offer a complete transmission assembly package which includes the above kit, bellhousing and a new Tremec World Class T4/T5.  The transmission that we offer has a low gear ratio of 3.95:1. This transmission comes directly from the factory as a 4 speed.  The transmission kit listed below is packaged as a 4 speed application; however, we do have a 5th gear option.  When ordering this transmission package and desiring a 5th gear (17% overdrive), add P/N 20-0021

P/N 27-1004 - T4 transmission assembly to Borg Warner 1350 T/C.  Transmission O.A.L. of 26-3/4".

P/N 27-1005 - T4 transmission assembly to Borg Warner 1350 T/C.  Transmission O.A.L. of 28-1/2".

(The bellhousing in these kits require a 157 tooth flywheel)

(A new hydraulic slave cylinder will need to be obtained and fabricated to fit this bellhousing)

T4/T5 RETROFITS RETAINING THE STOCK V6:

In recent years, we've had numerous customers with complaints regarding their stock transmission.  Using the same transmission and T/C adapters for T5 V8 conversions, we now manufacture an adapter plate to retain the stock 2.9L 6 cylinder. This adapter plate bolts to the front of the T4/T5 transmission.  This adapter plate bolts to a Ford 2.9L bellhousing and uses an internal release bearing, Ford# FlTZ7A-564A. (Some applications may require the purchase of this release bearing.) Bellhousing modifications are required.  This package should only be used with a 2.9L engine.  Refer to Pages 27-29 for additional T5 information.

P/N 27-1001 - T4 transmission assembly to Ford 2.9L V6.  Transmission O.A.L. of 26-3/4"

P/N 27-1002 - T4 transmission assembly to Ford 2.9L V6.  Transmission O.A.L. of 28-1/2"

P/N 20-0021 - 5th Gear upgrade (17% overdrive)

Transmission Dipstick:

The automatic transmission dipstick will usually have limited clearance when doing a transmission swap.  Whether it is the heater or air conditioner plenum, the stock dipstick tube will usually interfere.  If you try modifying the stock tube, nine times out of ten you will end up kinking the dipstick tube.  We recommend a flexible transmission dipstick from Lokar Performance, AA P/N 23-0003.

Automatic Transmission Shifter:

If you are upgrading to a new automatic transmission, a shifter needs to be considered.  We recommend using a cable operated floor shifter.  A cable operated shifter allows you to mount the shifter body in your ideal location.  There are many manufactures of cable operated floor shifters.  The main consideration is that it works with your transmission.  We offer a B & M sports shifter that fits both the C4 & AOD transmissions.  It is a console mounted unit that works well in these vehicles. AA P/N 715680

Transfer Case:

The Bronco II, Ranger & Explorer vehicles use a Borg Warner 1350 style transfer case.  The transfer case has a 25 spline input sleeve and thus requires a transmission to have a 25 spline output shaft.  When bolting up a transmission to this transfer case, the output shaft of the transmission assembly should extend approximately 3/16" beyond the face of the transmission adapter housing.  This transfer case has been manufactured in both a manual shift and an electric shift style.  The adapters we offer are compatible with both style transfer case shifter linkages.  We provide the necessary mounting holes in the same relative location on all of our adapters.  In some cases, slight modifications to the mounting brackets and or shifter handles are required.  Most conversions are designed so that relocation of the transfer case can be avoided.  On most adapters the stock crossmember will normally fit in its original location.  When bolting the transfer case to our adapter we recommend using a RTV Blue silicon to seal these components together to prevent leakage.

The Borg Warner 1350 transfer case is chain driven unit and is normally strong enough to handle the torque of a V8 engine.  The low gear ratio of this transfer case is 2.48:1. We have had some interest by customers wishing to upgrade this transfer case to our Atlas II gear-driven transfer case.  The Atlas is available in either a 3.8:1 or 4.3:1 low ratio.  The unit is shifted by a universal dual handle mechanism that fits well in most vehicles.  This is a new option that should be available late 1999.

Drive Shafts:

On 4WD conversions, we have designed most transfer case adapters in 2-to-3 various adapter lengths.  By selecting the correct adapter length, the new transmission assembly can, in most cases, directly interchange with the original automatic or manual transmission.  This will eliminate any modifications to the transfer case location, crossmember mount, shifter linkage or drive shafts.

On 2WD conversions you will have the option of using any transmission originally hooked to a V8 engine.  The output spline on the 2WD V8 transmissions are normally 28 splines - the exact same splines as on your original Bronco II, Ranger & Explorer 2WD transmission.  As a general rule, the back of the new V8 engine is located in the exact same position as the back of the original V6 or 4 cylinder engine.  If you obtain a 2WD transmission approximately the same length as the original transmission, then you will not need to modify your drivelines.  In other words, if your 5 speed transmission is 26-1/2", and you select a C4 automatic that is 26-1/4", you will not require any drive line modifications.  On some applications the transmission side of the drive shaft may have to have the yoke changed.

2WD Crossmembers:

On 2WD applications the stock crossmember will remain the same.  Some vehicle applications will require the crossmember to be relocated further back to couple to the new transmission mounting pad.  We have had customers move their entire crossmember back, while others fabricated a bracket to offset the rubber mount to meet the new transmission pad.

Axles:

Three axles were used in these vehicles.  Up to 1984, Ford used a 6.75 rear axle.  This axle is marginal up against a V8.  Vehicles 1985 to 1989 used a 7.5 rear end, and vehicles 1990 and newer used a 8.8 rear end.  These axles are usually sufficient to handle the V8 power.  Something to consider is tire size.  If a large tire size is going to be used, and the V8 is a high horsepower application, you might consider having a custom rear end built.

Engine Mounts:

On 4WD vehicles, the original 4 cylinder and V6 engines are supported by a large metal crossmember that rovides the necessary engine mount positions.  When converting to the new V8 engine, you will eliminate the original engine mounting pads.  You will be required to drill two new 1/2" holes in you crossmember and a bit of grinding.  The instruction sheet for these mounts provides measurements for the new hole locations.  Our 4WD engine mounts are,  Part No. 713018, are a direct connection between the new V8 engine and the existing crossmember.  They will position the engine so that no additional oil pan modifications will be required when using the regular Ford dual sump pan.

On 2WD vehicles, the original 4 cylinder and V6 engines are supported by a large metal crossmember that provides the necessary engine mount positions.  When converting to the new V8 engine, you will eliminate the original engine mounting pads.  The mounts we manufacture work in conjunction with a stock Ford small block rubber mount.  Our mounts will require two new 1/2" holes to be drilled on both sides of the stock crossmember.  These mounts will give you the option to position the V8 in the ideal location for your vehicle.  The instruction sheet provided with these mounts will give you installation procedures.  Our engine mounts are Part No. 713015.  Ford V8 engine rubbers mounts are Part No. E4TZ-6038G, or AA Part No. 713017.

Water Pump:

There are two different belt systems the Ford V8's used; 'V" belt and Serpentine.  The water pumps must have the fluid exit on the passenger side, ff you are planning to use our radiator.  Most water pumps have this configuration.  The Serpentine pumps are a reverse rotation water pump.  The stock belt system must be retained on this water pump.  Either pump can be used with a new engine swap; however, we have found you can obtain more engine clearance with the "V" belt system.

On vehicles requiring additional water pump clearance, Ford Motor Sport offers a short version 'V" belt & serpentine water pump.  The "V" belt water pump is 1.5" shorter than stock P/N M-8501-E351.  This water pump requires an aluminum 3-piece pulley, P/N M-8509-P (2 grove).  The Serpentine water pump is P/N M-8501-A50.  This water pump is 1.750" shorter than stor-k and requires one of the following aluminum pulleys: M-8509-L (steel) or M-8509-M (aluminum).  Kd includes the pulley for water pump, crankshaft & alternator.  These pumps is not legal on pollution-controlled vehicles.  Ford Motor Sport can be reached at (810) 468-1356.

Radiator Modifications:

Your Bronco II is equipped with a standard 2 core radiator.  When attempting a V8 conversion, you will notice that the inlets and outlets are in the wrong position.  It is possible to modify your existing radiator by switching the tanks and relocating the inlets; however, we have found that in most instances, this still does not provide adequate cooling.  We recommend that you consider a 4 core radiator to help prevent any cooling problems.  We have had a few customers try a Ford Explorer V8 radiator, but have never heard any feed back on how it worked.  The use of a 4 core radiator is required whenever you are retaining your air conditioning system.  When retaining your A/C system, you will need to use a new A/C condenser for proper radiator clearance.

We recommend a Universal condenser that is 5/8" thick.

P/N 716683 - 4 Core Radiator

*This radiator is not intended for use with the original 2.9 V6 engines.

Air Conditioning:

If your Bronco II, Ranger or Explorer is equipped with air conditioning, the air conditioning condenser will have to be relocated in front of the radiator - as far forward as possible.  This will allow for additional fan clearance.  The radiator support and grill may need to be modified for additional room.  An aftermarket tubular grill is a handy way to free-up extra room in front of the radiator.  The factory air conditioner compressor may be used; however, brackets to mount it onto the V8 will have to be acquired.

The hose connections must be modified and the wiring extended to reach the new compressor location.  A new 5/8" thick universal condenser from Modine can help make additional clearance.  Optional A/C Condenser - Modine Model No. 1 K500001

Fan:

On most conversions you will be able to retain a stock mechanical fan.  We have been told that a fan off of a Ford Falcon works well.  With your engine in the correct location, you will have a 1/2" to 1-1/2" of clearance between the fan and radiator.  If a mechanic fan is used, a shroud should be fabricated to properly draw air through the radiator.  This is also a safety precaution.  We have encountered some vehicles with variations that require the use of an electric fan.  If an electric fan is used, most V8 engines require a minimum of 950 CFM.  We recommend using two 12" electric fans to provide adequate cooling.  Most electric fans come complete with a fan shroud.

Alternator:          

Your stock V6 alternator can be retained by using the correct V8 pulley, alternator bracket and adjuster.  If you are replacing a 4 cylinder engine, we recommend that you purchase a new V8 alternator to provide the correct amperage.

#E7TZ-lOA313-B Ford Alternator Mounting Bracket

#E6AZ-2888-A Ford Alternator Adjusting Bracket

Power Steering: 

You will be able to utilize your stock power steering pump by using the correct brackets, which can be found on most Ford passenger cars 1978-86.  In addition to this, you will need to obtain the correct V8 pulley for proper belt alignment.  The hoses can be retained in the original length on most conversions.

#E5AZ-3C51 1 -A    Ford P/S Brackets

#E6SZ-3A674-B      Ford P/S Pump

#ElFZ-3A697-A       Ford P/S Reservoir

Fuel Pump:

(Carbureted) - In most cases, a mechanical fuel pump will interfere with the steering box and frame rails.  We offer a special mechanical fuel pump that works well with these vehicles, P/N 716052.  This fuel pump is manufactured with the diaphragm above the arm to allow additional clearance to the steering box.  This fuel pump cannot be used on vehicles that are using the Serpentine belt with the air conditioning and power steering systems.  If your vehicle was originally equipped with electronic fuel injection, you will have a fuel pump in your gas tank.  This fuel pump has a 40 psi rating and will not work with a normal carbureted engine without the use of a regulator.  This regulator must reduce the psi to between 5 and 7 pounds.  If a regulator is not available, then you can also use an in-line fuel pump.  If an in-line fuel pump is used, then the fuel pump in the fuel tank should be removed.

(injected) Since most injected blocks require a high pressure fuel line, the stock fuel pump (inside the fuel tank) is usually adequate.

P/N 12-803        Holley Fuel Regulator

P/N 716052        AA Fuel Pump

Oil Filter Bypass Adapter:

You will be required to use a remote oil filter adapter when attempting this conversion.  This adapter is available from Advance Adapters and can be ordered under Part No. 716084.  You cannot complete your conversion without this part.  The kit comes complete with hoses, bypass adapter plate and remote oil filter mounting bracket.  The remote mounting bracket can be installed on the fender apron.  This kit will provide the clearance on the steering sector and the chassis.  This special remote adapter has the inlets at a 90 degree angle.  Not all remote oil filter adapters can be used on these vehicles because the fittings normally protrude straight out off the block adapter.  We have had several cases where customers purchased other bypass oil filter adapters only to find that the fitting locations are not compatible with the engine conversion installation.  We only offer the block-off adapter and remote oil filter mounting plate as a kit.  No items in this kit are sold separately.  Advance Adapters uses the Perma-Cool brand name.

Gauges:

When converting to a V8, you can use the stock V6 temperature and pressure gauge sending units.  These units will be compatible with your new V8 engine and stock gauges.  If your vehicle is equipped with a factory tachometer, you will need to have it re-calibrated for use with your new engine.

Starter Motor:

The Ford V8 requires that the starter motor be bolted to the bellhousing.  For this reason, it is imperative that you check your flywheel and starter for proper engagement before installing your engine into your vehicle.  Ford bellhousings are normally matched to Ford flywheel diameters. (A bellhousing designed for 164 tooth flywheel cannot be used with a 157 tooth flywheel).  The wrong flywheel will result in the inability to find a matching starter.  For the most part, manual transmission conversions will use a 164 tooth flywheel, while automatic conversions will use a 157 tooth flexplate.  The original Bronco II starter will not be retained.

Oil Pan:

There is a special dual sump oil pan required for all 2WD & 4WD V8 conversions.  This pan is available from your local Ford dealer and must be ordered to match your particular year of engine.  The oil pan must be purchased complete with a new pickup tube and screen for the V8 installation.  This pan is a standard Ford part and is found on most 1980 & newer 302 motors.  If your engine is an older style that has the dipstick entry into the side of the pan, then you will need to modify your new pan for use with your older engine.  This will require some welding.

302 Ford Oil Pan Assembly Consists of: (AA P/N 716412)

#Fl SZ-6675B        Ford Oil Pan

#E7PZ-6622A        Ford Pickup Tube

351 Ford Oil Pan    Assembly Consists of:

#E7AZ-6675A        Ford Oil Pan

#D9AZ-6750B        Ford Dipstick

#D9AZ-6622B        Pickup Screen

#D9AZ-6754B        Dipstick Tube

 Caution:   When installing a new oil pan, dipstick and pickup tube, you must make sure that you locate the pickup screen in a position that will provide ample oil supply.  Be sure and calibrate your new dipstick assembly.

Flywheel & Flexplate:

It is required that you use a 164 tooth flywheel for manual transmission conversions.  In order to use the late model Ford F150 truck bellhousing on manual stock transmission installations, you must use the 164 tooth flywheel.  This flywheel cannot be changed since the bellhousing requires the starter location in a position compatible with only the larger flywheel.  On late model 302 blocks (1982 & newer), Ford did not offer a 164 tooth flywheel.  An early year flywheel can be used, but the flywheel must be balanced to this block.  This can be performed by most engine rebuilders.

For automatic transmission installations, we recommend that the 157 tooth flexplate be used in order to allow for additional clearances and minimize tunnel area modifications.  Use great caution in selecting the proper flexplate. 1982 & newer late model engines will require a counter balance.  Make sure to test fit your starter motor, bellhousing and flywheel assembly before proceeding with the engine installation.

Ignition System:

Your Ford vehicle is equipped with an electronic ignition and computer control module.  It is best advised to avoid using this system with your new motor.  If you are going to retain a computer controlled engine, then we recommend obtaining the Ford schematics.  The easiest installation for computerized V8 engine installations is to use the Street & Performance wiring harness or the new Ford Motorsports wire harness.  Ford Motorsports has a new wiring harness for the aftermarket engine conversion industry.  This wiring harness is easy to install and is perfect for 4WD engine conversions and kit cars.  There are many other manufacturers of Ford aftermarket wiring harnesses.  We have found the Internet to be a good source in finding additional manufacturers than the ones we have listed above.

Exhaust / Headers:

The installation of a V8 engine can create exhaust clearance problems.  On vehicles that are not retaining smog equipment, we offer exhaust headers that fit this close quarters, P/N 717044.

NOTE:  These headers are not smog legal.  On vehicles retaining smog equipment, the stock manifolds from a Ford Maverick or Comet work the best.  Some customers have used manifolds off of a 1996 Ford Explorer. The exhaust manifolds from a Mustang will not work.  If a 351W block is used, exhaust manifolds, or our headers cause steering interference.

Suspension & Body Lifts:

Our kits do not require the use of a body lift; however, it is worth considering.  A body lift will provide additional clearance to the heater / air conditioner plenum, while at the same time, providing more clearance around the bellhousing.  A body lift also makes more room for a taller radiator and will usually eliminate any other type of clearance problems.

The installation of a V8 is about 175 lbs. heavy then the stock engine.  On 2WD applications, the suspension will normally drop about 1 inch.  We recommend using a heavy-duty shock that will compensate for this drop.  On 4WD applications, the suspension is equipped to handle the extra weight.  Once completing any one of these vehicles, the front alignment should be checked.

Firewall Modifications:

The firewall and floor pan area is narrow.  Minor modifications are needed.  On automatic applications, we recommend the small bellhousing to achieve additional clearance.  Since the larger bellhousings on manual applications, we recommend a body lift.  The following modifications are mandatory on both transmission applications:

1.  The body seam between the floor pan and the firewall will need to be bent over.  In some instances, additional clearance may be needed in the bottom corners were the firewall meets the floor pan.

2.  The heater box on the firewall need to be trimmed and patched to clear the valve cover.  This modification is approximately 5" x 7".  We recommend that you pop-riveted & epoxy a new piece of sheet metal over the hole.

3.  If you are using an injected block, you will also run into interference with the air conditioning plenum on the engine air intake.  On these installations the plenum must be modified.