Hi guys

Had a donor 302 motor but this morning found that 2 cylinders are hurtin.
So in looking thru this forum, is a 5.0 Explorer motor my best option?
I have a C4 trans in it & I'm 2wd extended cab with 35's.
Its a prerunner. I can't spend a ton, looking to spend like $2500 total & that's
using a trustworthy backyard mechanic for install.
Does it sound doable at that price range?

Thanks

 

If you can find a rusted, wrecked, or rolled 1996-2001 2WD explorer with V8 its doable
You would have to use the explorer automatic(4R70W) for now because that is what its computer needs, but at some point you can get the computer software changed to run a regular automatic of your choice

Getting the whole explorer gets most of the bits an pieces you need in one shot, to do EFI V8 swap, if its a 1998-2001 make sure you get KEYS with it, as the computer won't work without matching keys, you can delete this part as well from computer software at some point just cost $$ same as deleting transmission software

 

Thank you Ron.
There's so much to consider. Personally I wish I could just supercharge my 4.0 but that may be more costly than a bigger motor.
Then with a bigger motor that's a 302 with a cam & holly sniper or an ego with all of the computer stuff to wire up.
I am getting frustrated & gun shy.
Of those 3 scenarios what would you think would be a good outcome without being too expensive?

Thanks & sorry if this is a pain

 

302 is the way to go IMO

Why not just a 302 with a cam and a carb for now, you need to do exhaust and oil filter relocation and an electric cooling fan(wrecking yard)

Then you can do EFI and other expensive upgrades when funds permit