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Big-T · 11-27-2002, 11:17 AM

I've been contemplating options for swapping in a V8 in my 89' LX 2.3 automatic. The 4-banger is anemic (at best...) and while I consider it a solid and reliable commuter car (as it is currently used), it doesn't provide for much fun. The body is in excellent condition, so I feel that it's a good platform to build something fun.

I have considered various 'traditional' swaps, like a 5.0 stroker (347 for example), a 351, or even a 351 stroker. I do want to retain EFI and all smog equipment because I'm looking to build a pure street car that needs to pass emissions.

Lately I have been thinking that a smooth running DOHC/32V Cobra modular engine would do well in the Fox body. So, I want to know - anyone know anything about the feasibility of this swap? Cost is not a major concern, nor is some 'hack-mechanic' modifications to make it fit. I'd like to mate it to a T-56 for a good combo of accelleration and highway cruising capabilities.

- Have anyone seen a swap like this?
- Are the motor mounts in the same location?
- Is the engine bay wide enough for the OHC's?
- What, if any, modifications to the body/engine bay/transmission tunnel may be needed?
- Are any 'swap parts' available, such as special headers, oil pan, etc. that are available for 351 swaps?
- Any other thoughts?

I am not looking to build a screamer or a strip car. This is ONLY meant to be a street car with good performance and driveability. I don't care what the 1/4 mile numbers would be, and I realize that the pushrod engines have better torque down-low. Humor me

I'd love to hear from anyone who might know anything about this. And please, I'm not interested in guessing, unless it is particularly educated guessing

Thanks!

T.

11-27-2002, 11:17 AM	#1
Big-T Registered Member Join Date: Nov 2002 Location: Manassas, VA Posts: 31	Modular in a fox? Can it be done? I've been contemplating options for swapping in a V8 in my 89' LX 2.3 automatic. The 4-banger is anemic (at best...) and while I consider it a solid and reliable commuter car (as it is currently used), it doesn't provide for much fun. The body is in excellent condition, so I feel that it's a good platform to build something fun. I have considered various 'traditional' swaps, like a 5.0 stroker (347 for example), a 351, or even a 351 stroker. I do want to retain EFI and all smog equipment because I'm looking to build a pure street car that needs to pass emissions. Lately I have been thinking that a smooth running DOHC/32V Cobra modular engine would do well in the Fox body. So, I want to know - anyone know anything about the feasibility of this swap? Cost is not a major concern, nor is some 'hack-mechanic' modifications to make it fit. I'd like to mate it to a T-56 for a good combo of accelleration and highway cruising capabilities. - Have anyone seen a swap like this? - Are the motor mounts in the same location? - Is the engine bay wide enough for the OHC's? - What, if any, modifications to the body/engine bay/transmission tunnel may be needed? - Are any 'swap parts' available, such as special headers, oil pan, etc. that are available for 351 swaps? - Any other thoughts? I am not looking to build a screamer or a strip car. This is ONLY meant to be a street car with good performance and driveability. I don't care what the 1/4 mile numbers would be, and I realize that the pushrod engines have better torque down-low. Humor me I'd love to hear from anyone who might know anything about this. And please, I'm not interested in guessing, unless it is particularly educated guessing Thanks! T.