This looks like the perfect forum to get some ideas on a fuel efficient engine swap. I'm looking at a 1936 Ford Pickup project build. I'll be using an aftermarket chassis, so independent front suspension w disc brakes, 9" reared with drums. I need help selecting an engine. I'd like something reasonable light (for weight distribution) (maybe 220+ hp) that would make sufficient power and provide good fuel economy (25 mpg plus), as I want to drive this vehicle around the block and on 400 mile treks. And there's got to be an automatic that mounts up to it. I'm considering both 4 and 6 cylinders, (not building a 400 hp hot rod). I thought the Ford 3.0L out of a Lincoln LS (AJ30), with aluminum block, would be a good choice but it was suggested the electronics could be a nightmare. Getting functional electronics is my biggest fear at this time. What vehicle years should I investigate to avoid overly complex electronics? I appreciate any thoughts, but don't want to do a "first ever" set-up. -Thanks

 

Welcome to FTE.

You might be a first ever with that Lincoln motor.

302/5.0 Explorer or Mustang motor. Aluminum heads and manifold, 4R70W trans, aftermarket EFI and controller. Puts you somewhere in the 250 hp zone, with an OD that will allow low rev cruising if you select your axle ratio and tire with all that in mind.

Serving suggestion.

 

RUN, don't walk, away from any "interesting" engines unless you're on your tenth engine swap.
This is a Ford site so I immediately thought of 5.0 Mustang or Explorer engine and whatever OD transmission it came out of the factory with. The only issue is the engine used to be a little bit longer than would fit easily in the space between radiator and firewall. I know there were workarounds and I know that there is a book or books that tell you how to do this. You want a fuel injected 5.0, they're everywhere. They're lightweight, 220 real hp or more, get great mileage and parts are everywhere. Here's what you don't need: Exotic engines, Hemis, smallblock Chevies (the 350/350 turbo hydromatic swap has been done to death), any bigblock, a Harley engine, an OHV flathead conversion, anything even a little bit strange. Just say NO!

Here it is:

 

Put my vote in for 5.0 AODE combo.
Your truck is fairly light, the 5.0 will make it move well, the EFI on the later Fox era can be easily adapted, parts are easy to get, and the engine is super reliable.
I have an '86 Mustang GT with 5.0 and 5 speed and it moves great and mileage is pretty good unless you really get on it.

 

Hey guys. Thanks for the input. I was (and am) a bit worried about getting a 5.0 in the space, which is why I was wondering about a V6. What vintage of engines are we talking about with the Explorer or Mustang? My other big worry is the electronics involved. Is your experience with using a donor car computer & wiring harness? Is see aftermarket ECMs out there, but not so much for transmission control. A lot are set up for manual transmissions, and I would prefer to go with an auto w OD. Rest assured, there won't be a chevy in it.

 

Not a Ford but a BMW straight 6 cylinder from an E39 will fit and comes with auto gearbox , is aluminium and uses Bosch Motronic engine management so not too tricky with electronics and is around 180 BHP. This will return over 30 MPG with selective diff gearing.

 

 

Paul, You say a BMW E39 engine (I'm assuming the M54) would fit. I haven't been able to find physical dimensions of this engine on-line. What makes you believe it will fit between radiator and firewall? Are you aware of one that was installed in an early Ford? -Thanks

 

7.3 power stoke with a 5 or 6 speed standard transmission. It will last! Diesel fuel doesn't go back as quick as gas (5 years as apposed 3-6 months). Assuming it won't be your daily driver? Enough low end grunt, easy to build power.

 

I'm talking about a small pickup and do want it to be a driver. I don't think it's too feasible to drop a 1000 lb engine in it.

 

Haha Yes you would have upgrade front springs and axle. Didn't say it would be easy. The really cool builds have those things that leave people marvelling at the engineering involved. 7.3's are a dime a dozen because you have a hard time killing them.

 

I am in the UK , unfortunately we don't have the plethora of engines available that are in the USA but BMWs M52-and M54 engines are plentiful and cheap. I have measured up and it will fit using the existing truck engine mounting brackets and electric fan mounted on the front of the BMW radiator. There is an issue with steering connections as the engine is tilted over a few degrees but it is do-able, not a problem for you as you are left hand drive, no bulkhead cutting is required. The gearbox crossmember may need opening out a little to accommodate as required. Of course you will need to have fuel injection. Certainly worth looking at also is the Diesel M47 engine that is currently used in Land Rover conversions , here is a link https://www.facebook.com/groups/1106830676068639/ Good luck with your conversion which ever way you go.

 

Powerstroke in an old pickup has already been done. International did it. Took a 39 1/2 ton and had it built with a diesel in it. I know the guy they got bought the donor truck from.
On the other hand, I owned a 87 Ranger that had a 2.9 V6 and auto overdrive. It was a great runner and performed flawlessly. UNTIL it got totaled in a wreck. That engine would do exactly what you want.

 

I'm interested as to what would be involved with putting a 5.0 into an older truck. I have a 40 and a questionalbe 302 to go in it. What would I need from the donor 5.0 to make this happen?

Red