Tristram

This topic has probably got beaten around a bit, but is it worth going out, buying a 5.0L windsor from a wrecker (then rebuilding it, with new head gaskets, etc) then buying a clapped out E series (I6) with a manual trans to drop it into? I'm thinking of an early E-series in terms of cost of the project. I don't mind doing the work myself, I want a car that I can work on and enjoy.
Comments and suggestions please!
:s5

psycho chicken

You'll need a V8 gear box, an I6 5 speed will crap itself in no time.

Tristram

What about the rest of the driveline? And the engine bay - would the engine just bolt straight in? Would I need to move any of the engine mounts?

psycho chicken

Ok, I've never done anything like this, but this is what my head suggests;

V8 engine mounts, POSSIBLY a V8 k frame.
V8 transmission for sure, don't know if there is a difference between I6 and V8 pedal boxes and clutches.
Driveshaft maybe.
You'll need an entire V8 engine loom, possibly an entire main loom, as the ECU plug will be different.

You're best bet is getting a wreck, parking it right next to an I6 and just replacing bits as you pull them out.

MADNC_8

yeah the only way to do it is to have a EB (or similar)V8 wreck to pilfer parts from. K Frame, loom, ECU fuel system is fairly different...

Tristram

How about costs? Would it be worthwhile following this route, rather than actually buying a early XR8 Sprint?

psycho chicken

I imagine this would be cheaper than an XR8 Sprint, you've just got to know what you're doing.

I'm seriously considering the idea, simply because I know my car in and out, I'd know a rebuilt engine in and out and I could probably get Sprint performance a hell of a lot cheaper than buying a good one.

Tristram

Thats a real bonus knowing that. In terms of literature on the E series falc and converting to the V8, any books recomended? Working on the engine itself isn't an issue - I can do that competantly without any issues.

MADNC_8

i think you meant just a plain EB XR8 not a sprint. the sprint was ED only, it had a EB GT motor, and they sell for around the 15,000 to 20,000k mark now.

if you couldnt get a EB V8 into an EA or EB for under 15k there must be something wrong

gtcoupe95

Need To Change Engine Bay Wiring Loom At Firewall Plug, Computer, Box And Motor Complete,
K Frame Is Same As 6cyl, Radiator Is Same As 6cyl. Easy As Conversion..
6cyl And V8 Boxes Man Or Auto Will Never Interchange.. There Isnt Even Adapter Kits For 6cyl T5 In To V8's.. Been Down That Path B4.
Cheaper To Buy Yourself A Damaged In The Front Eb Ghia Or 5.0 Fairlane From Auction For About $1500, Then You Got Everything Plus All The Interior Ect If You Weant To Use It

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