QuestionI have a 2005 mustang vert. I have done some research and found that to take the stock V6 to around 300rwhp, I will need to do some performance work on the lower end, crank ground, change pistons, mill the deck, ect. Then I will need to work on the upper end.
I thought I would just take the engine out of the 2005 and start the project, however, I may be at it 6 months or more...the wife is not happy about that one. Any way, I thought I would buy a 2003 or 2004 Ford Explorer V6 and use that engine for my base project. Once I was completed with that engine and the modifications, I would do the same on the stock engine. I am doing some SCCA solo one racing so the extra engine would be nice to have...just in case. Anyway, all that being said, here is the questions:
1. The identification for the Explorer engine is 6-245 (4.0L, SOHC)LHD, Flex Fuel,VIN K. The ID on my stock engine is 6-245(4.0L, SOHC)Vin N. Can I use the Explorer engine and then what additional parts would I need or need to change out.
2. Will you recommend sources for pistons, SS valves, valve springs (would like to use cobra springs), heads, Cam, polished and ported intake (matched upper and lower), fuel rail ect.
3. Can I use my stock computer to drive the modified engine? I will have a non-factory tune and DYNO and have an 8.8 rearend with 4.10 gears to handle the added Hp.
4. Suggestions for a good source for moveable engine stand.
I am sure I will have more questions later, but thanks in advance for the basic information.
AnswerDon-
To be honest I have no clue if the Explorer motor will swap in without modification or not. The new Mustangs haven't been out long enough for there to be a large knowledge base on what will and won't work as far as motor swaps. If I had to hazard a guess, I would imagine it would work...it's all just about the dimensions of the motors being the same. For pistons, cam, valves, etc. etc. I would source them from a place that deals mainly in modular motors like Sean Hyland Motorsports, Livernois Motorsports, or Modmax. I'm sure all of these guys have been focusing on the V8 motors, but they'll probably have some insight into the V6s as well. The stock computer will definitely need to be tuned, but it will certainly work. The newer ECUs have enough power to give even the beefiest desktop processor envy, so there's no problem there. You'd do yourself a favor to get a handheld tuner like the Diablosport Predator or SCT X-Calibrator. They're more expensive initially (usually between $400-$500 I think) than a chip, but unlike a chip you can change and tweak the tune whenever you want. If you wanted even more tuning flexibility you could go with something like the Anderson Ford Motorsports PMS system. It's all about how much you want to spend and how much adjustability you want. Where to get the engine stand...any of the usual suspects. Jegs, Summit, Harbor Freight Tools, etc. Hope this helps.
Steve
