I have an 86 4x4 swb 5.0 auto, the power sucks. I have two options and really can not make up my mind. Opt #1 I have a fresh stock explorer motor (would change cam) and a turbo kit. or Opt #2 I also have a complete EFI 460 w/spd and transfer case (also cam change and MAF conversion) and honestly would freshen this one up before install. Now this truck is my daily driver, I dont race it, I do occasionally tow, and fuel mileage is not super important but I dont want 4mpg either lol. I can see pros and cons of both but I am super indecisive on which route to go as both will be a ton of work.

 

I'm sure the term "there is no replacement for displacement" may ring a bell, not familiar with the EFI 460s and their gas mileage, but my daughters gets a good 9-10 with a smaller carb. If I ever take it over, I have the ability to re cam it and drop a nice big 800 cfm on it, to get a little more out of it.

 

460 will be simpler.

302's are generally good for about 4-500hp before bad things happen. A 460 will handle near twice that.

Horsepower is a function of the energy release from the fuel and the more hp used, the more fuel. In other words 500hp will get the same economy as a turbo 302 or 460. Part throttle and cylinder efficiency, plus rotating mass, etc will make a difference though.

What's your goal and what's your budget?

 

Opt #3: Change your differential gears.

You say the power "sucks," but the problem isn't really your motor. The problem is your entire combination. Reading your signature, I can see that you have a 5.0/302 powering a relatively HEAVY vehicle. And while the AOD is a good transmission, it has the highest gear ratios of ALL of the automatic transmissions:

First: 2:40:1
Second: 1:47:1
Third: 1:1
Overdrive: 0.67:1

The AOD gear ratios are great for gas mileage, but bad for performance and power. And running 32" tires makes the problem much worse. With a 5.0 engine, AOD transmission, and 32" tires, I would recommend a MINIMUM of 4.10 differential gears. That will put a LOT more power to the ground to turn those big tires over and make you feel like you are driving a completely different vehicle.

What is your current axle ratio?

 

The goal with the truck is just to be a fun daily driver. Budget is not unlimited but i have both motors sitting here so one will be sold to fund the other......Gear ratio is currently 3.50, but I have a 4.10 rear axle for it. so before all the motor swapping is finished it will be 4.10 because I am probably going to 33s. it has 31x10.50s on it now.

 

WHy would you put an exploder engine in? I vote 460

 

See how it does with the 4.10's. Also, I'll take that 460's 5 speed off your hands

 

I figured an explorer 5.0 with a cam and around 8psi would be a pretty fun driver. Plus I wouldnt have to swap to manual and all that, but on the other hand the torque of the 460 would be awesome I think......The engine swap will be done even with the gear change.

 

I can trade you for my BB C6 if you want to keep it auto. Transmisson is running great.

Can you tell I really want that manual?

If you want auto, look around for one from the year the 460 came out of. Should give you an idea of what can handle that torque.