so I have a 94 f150 with the 4.9 and have been toying with the idea of swapping a v8 into it because im just not happy with the performance of the six, or the gas mileage (9-10 mpg). ive read a lot of stuff on this and am not happy with the answers im getting. im not looking to be asked why im swapping, I don't like the i6 period. my first question will be 5.0 or 5.8? ive read the 5.0 does not produce sufficient low end torque but im not sure about that. the next question I have is about the transmissions. I currently have the e4od automatic but it is dying, I know that I can get an m5od/m5r2 5 speed stick out of another f150 which would be preferable but im not sure if it would hold up behind a 5.8. im trying not to find myself looking for a zf-5 because they are harder to find and the bell housings don't match as far as I understand. I am also wondering about the AOD and C-6? would they be a reasonable transmission for the swap? the last thing I will ask is what will I need? I know the exhaust will need to be modified as well as the radiator and engine mounts that go to the frame needing to be changed, I also know if I change transmissions my driveshafts wont work. will a factory v8 wiring harness and computer match up and only need to be plugged in under the hood? while keeping all the lights/gauges, and other accessories working?

 

Well gas mileage won't b any better most likely. If you do the swap go 5.8, not 5.0. As for transmissions, you can use an M5OD, but a ZF would be much better. They make them for small blackmail as well, you just have to find a 5 speed F250 or F350 with a small block gas engine. You will need new driveshafts. As for computer and wiring, your best off getting it from the same vehicle you get your motor from.

In an honest opinion, it will likely be cheaper and much easier to find a new truck with a bigger engine than to converts yours.

 

you raise a good point but I already have a lot of money and time into this truck, and im kinda attached to it because it is my first (and only) truck. not to mention I live in the Canadian rust belt and finding decent trucks around here is next to impossible. I may just look around and see about finding a zf-5 then. I was under the belief they only came behind a 460 and the 7.3 (like I said, not finding the answers I want on other forums)

 

There's noting wrong with upgrading to a V8 from the I6, it's a bunch of work but it can be nearly plug and play with the right parts truck. That is what I suggest you do.. go find a 5.8/E4OD parts truck from '94 if at all possible(assuming that is what you have) and then you will have everything you need at your fingertips.