Hey, I'm getting rid of my 2003 edge, and picking up a 97 xlt tomorrow. The xlt is 2wd, 4cyl, 5 speed.

I plan on lowering it, dropping in a modified 302, 00+ front end conversion, and doing some audio modifications.

Has anyone else done any of this (aside from the audio) and can provide some helpful information, links, or pictures? thanks!

 

I can't help with your question but the best of luck with the new truck!!!

 

Why are you getting rid of the 03? If i was going to put a v8 in, i'd do this:

Get a 302 out of an explorer, cause it allready has the gt 40-p heads/upper/lower intake manifold, etc. Completely disassemble the engine, have it baked/cleaned, put new bearings in it, have the crank reground as neceassary, Have it punched out .030 or .040 or .060, Get a nice hyraulic roller camshaft for it, also some roller rockers with about a 1.7:1 ratio. Make sure you get pistons are dished pretty good, so the valves dont hit, then have the whole thing balanced,

For the heads, do some light porting/polishing, and have a 3 angle valve job done, install some bronze valve guides, and call the heads good. Then put in some 24 lb/hr fuel injectors, and get a MAF thats calibrated for that. Then call up our good friends at motorhaven and have them burn you a premium octane chip for your setup, giving them all the specs for the cam and whatnot.

Also, dont forget to install a bigger radiator and an electric fan, and you also have to have a good intake and headers.
Next, while the engines out, put in an 8.8" rear axle, with a 3.73 limited slip, or whatever ratio you want depending on how much highway driving you do. Make sure you get a good tranny to handle all this HP.

Also while the engine is out, rip apart the interior, and install some speakers here and there, also, with some of the interior taken apart, you will find good places to hide your amp and such.

Next, put it alll back together, and go smoke some cocky ricer's, heck you could even stomp on some camaro's and other performance cars. They'd never see it coming.

As far as resources go, ...
www.jamesduff.com -motor mounts, v8 radiators, and other conversion stuff
www.advanceadapters.com - more conversion stuff
www.fordmuscle.com -good head porting stuff, its worth the subscription
www.summitracing.com -my favorite parts supplier
there was another one, i'll let you know when i think of it.