(This is cross-posted from the 385 folder AND the Computer chip/tuneing folder, becasue I was too dumb to scroll down and notice this folder before I posted in there. Mods, please don't kill me!!! I'm sorry and I beg your forgiveness.)

I've got a Fuelie 460 pulled from an '89 F-450 that I'm swapping into my 1977 Lincoln Mark V. I've rebuilt the engine already, with Kenith Black hyperutechtic (god I can't spell) pistons that are slightly higher compression then stock, along with a Comp Cam and rebuilt heads. This is an engine built for low-end power and economy, street useage, will probably see 7,000-10,000 miles per year.

I'm just a the point now where I'm looking at the computer system. I do have the harness that came with the engine, along with the ECU. However, the wireing hareness ends it 4 round plugs, while the ECU of course has a long row of pins. So actually getting the stock computer and electronics to work sounds like more of a pain in the *** then it's worth to me.

My plans are to get an Accel DFI V-8 kit to run the engine, eliminating the need to dick around with the stock computer and harness. What are everyone's thoughts on this? It getting the stock computer running feasible/reasonable? The Accel system is around $1500, which I wouldn't mind saveing, but the tunability/flexibility of it, and the fact that it's compleatly standalone from the rest of the car/transmission are what really appeals to me.

 

If you have the money, I would definitely use the aftermarket stand-alone system. It would definitely be easier than messing with the stock computer system. You have to have a lot of excess junk with the stock system, or it will give you a check engine light.

 

Thanks for the reply Frank. That was always my plan from the beginning, becasue I don't want to have to mess around that much. I'd have to get the stock computer chipped anyway, as it would look for the transmission and not find it.

 

If you do go with a stand-alone system, make sure you get an older style ignition system, either a DSII or aftermarket system.
Also, if you're into soldering and tinkering with electronics, look into Megasquirt. Same concept, you assemble it yourself, it's only about $150 for the kit.

 

Well I have the stock distributor from the engine, but I may get an aftermarket as it will allow sequential injections. I am into electronics, but to be honest my solder skills are horrible. A couple of my ricer friends are useing the Megasquirt, but I'm just not interested in that. Rather spend the cash and get something reliable.