2.3t for 5.0w swap. Anyone interested?

[reddy2300]

It seems I can't let go of doing another 5.0/XR swap. I have a ~75k mile 87 XR with some "ok" engine mods. (Bolt-ons...IC, PE computer, 3" mandrel bent Stinger exhaust...) Also have the T9 and short throw shifter.

I'd like to find a 5.0/T5 from a Foxbody that's in similar condition. With harness/computer, etc. Doesn't have to be anything special. Just low mileage and runs as good like the turbo 2.3 does.

Is this a realistic "ask"?

Any takers?

[andyofcolumbusmerkur]

I think it makes sense to keep the original engine in there since it is fairly low mileage. But I also think it makes sense to put an LSX in just about everything since they seem to have so many good qualities.

[reddy2300]

Take that crap Chevy talk somewhere else. I want to keep the car nice.

#neverchevy

[my8950]

There is a guy close to me that is always parting Mustangs with the 5.0 and trans. I'm sure you can get one easily and swap it over if that's what you want to do. It's been done before, and I'm pretty sure there are a number of others who've done it. Pat Sprague, Chuck, being a few...Although, I think both of these are from an SN95, so that's a little different than the previous Fox platform. Do it if that's what you want to do.
I'd think a mild build 5.0 would be the same as a 2.3T roughly, it would provide enough power and torque to run the car decently...

[reddy2300]

I’ve built a 5.0 powered XR in the past. That’s not what this post is about. I’m looking for someone who may have a good engine and trans.

[my8950]

I’ve built a 5.0 powered XR in the past. That’s not what this post is about. I’m looking for someone who may have a good engine and trans.

Look on corral, or your local CL.

[andyofcolumbusmerkur]

At least I didn't suggest the BMW V8.

[andyofcolumbusmerkur]

Now I understand, you want to trade engines with another person. Maybe someone out there has an svo that needs a long block, and a lose 5.0 or 5.0 donor car parked. Not a ton of turbo 2.3 engines available so I guess it's possible to find the right person.

[my8950]

Now I understand, you want to trade engines with another person. Maybe someone out there has an svo that needs a long block, and a lose 5.0 or 5.0 donor car parked. Not a ton of turbo 2.3 engines available so I guess it's possible to find the right person.

Ah, is that the case? I didn't get that....I think that would be a tough trade to find. May be better off the just find and buy the engine/trans setup desired, and then sell the 2.3 setup. My guess is that not the same person would want to do the opposite trade. Most guys swapping engines on a 5.0 are going LS or Coyote, not downsizing to the 2.3...

[reddy2300]

Yeah. I'm not relying solely on this type of trade to procure the parts. Just floating it out there to see what I can find. I do know that I can find the parts on MarketPlace/CL and even the JY. But, if someone wants to do a trade, it's what I'd prefer.

The only people who do 2.3t swaps aren't just Merkur guys. Plenty of guys with Rangers and non-turbo 2.3 Mustangs could benefit from that swap. And some of those guys have 5.0 parts sitting around.

I would still like to build a "Boxtop" Fairmont with a 2.3t and T5.

[my8950]

Find a 5.0? I've seen about 4 5.0's posted since the last post. Fairly cheap too...

[Merkurfast]

Best to get a 5.0 out of a Explorer as they came with GT40 heads and shorter accessory drive.

[reddy2300]

GT40p heads. Which requires a different header. And then, when you buy heads, you'll need yet another header, as most "P" head headers don't play well with most aftermarket heads.

[thesameguy]

I would still like to build a "Boxtop" Fairmont with a 2.3t and T5.

1000%!