[updated:LAST EDITED ON 25-Nov-01 AT 11:10*AM (EST)]
You're gonna have to do a side by side comparison of the block and heads of the two engines. You want to make sure that all of the plugs and wires on the '88 will fit on your replacement engine.
You'll be using the intake, valve covers, and timing cover from the truck, so concentrate on the block and heads. Serpentine belt drive engines use a reverse rotation water pump, you won't need the timing cover mounted fuel pump, and you'll be using the truck's accessories.
The dipstick may be located differently on the two engines, so check and be sure you can make it work. Also, mabye in '86 Ford switched to a one-piece rear main seal so watch that when you install the oil pan. You may have to use the truck's oil pan and oil pump pickup, and you may have to use a special main stud to hold the oil pump pickup on. Check on this before installing the crank in your machined block.
As far as the cam and such, the '86 and later block were machined for and used roller lifters. When you order a cam, be sure to ask them if your cam has the correct gear for the distributor. The cam in the '88 uses roller lifter lifters. I don't know what year your replacement engine is, but unless it's '85 or newer, you'll have to use a flat-tappet cam. Don't install the fuel pump eccentric as you won't need it. The stock pushrod and rocker style should be ok to use, but buy new parts.
I'm far from an expert on the small blocks, but these items I remember reading about. Hopefully others will jump in and correct me if I made a mistake.
Jason
Ps. Sorry if this turned into a small book!
engine transfer ( how to make this work)
