Ford Racing 4.6L 3-Valve Fox Body Swap - Part 1

Ford Racing 4.6L 3-Valve Fox Body Swap - Part 2

Ford Racing 4.6L 3-Valve Fox Body Swap - Part 2.1

Ford Racing 4.6L 3-Valve Fox Body Swap - Part 3

 Ford Racing 4.6L 3-Valve Fox Body Swap - Part 5 - Pics & Test Drive Video

The installation of the 4.6 3v Fox Body swap is underway and going smoothly.  In part 2, I outlined the process of installing the engine and headers.  This blog is more on making the engine and headers fit properly, and improving clearance.  I've also completed additional details to get one step closer to firing the engine.

The headers presented problems due to the long-tube design, coupled with the 1/2" thick adaptors from Logan Motorsports.  The adaptors did a great job of adapting the MAC 4.6 2v long-tube headers, and they offered additional bellhousing and starter clearance, but the added thickness of the spacers caused the right header to contact the frame rail. 

 In addition to this, the header contacted the lower portion of the firewall on the right side, due to the 79-93 firewall's limited clearance compared to newer, SN-95 Mustangs.

After some thought, I elected to install Maximum Motorsports' 1/2" k-member spacers.  My thought was that lowering the engine would provide additional clearance at the firewall, as well as increase much-needed hood clearance, as I plan to run a stock hood.

Installing the spacers was a breeze.  I simply hooked the engine hoist to the engine, removed the k-member bolts, and lowered the engine.  While it was below the frame rails, I clearanced the passenger side header tube that was contacting the frame rail, and slightly dinged the firewall.  I then raised the motor back up, at the same time sandwiching the Maximum Motorsports spacers between the k-member and the frame rail.  This will raise the body over the k-member slightly.  Ride height adjustments will be made with the coil overs, so I won't be hurting the car's stance.

Once everything was bolted back up, I found I'd gained the firewall and frame rail clearance I needed, at the same time, earning much-needed hood clearance.  A quick test fit of the hood showed me that only slight trimming of the forward hood brace would be needed, but no holes or removal of the brace is going to be required.  Remember, my car is a 79 model.  83-93 Mustangs have thinner hood bracing.  Installation of a stock 83-93 hood with the k-member spacers should require no modifications.

Other accomplishments from the last blog include installing the 96-04 adjustable clutch cable kit with an 82-93 Mustang clutch pedal assembly, and installation of the manual brake conversion with custom-bent lines. 

I then bolted on a Mishimoto raiator/fan kit, Professional Products EFI return-style 2-port fuel pressure regulator, and I restored and installed the factory headlight wiring. 

  The front suspension is now mostly complete, with stock lower control arms and spindles, and UPR coil over kit with Lakewood 90/10 struts, and Maximum Motorsports camber/caster plates.

Next, I will be installing the Ford Racing harness and controls package, as well as installing the fuel pump and plumbing the fuel system.  Stay tuned!  It's getting close!!