Wildwisc

Well, it's finally running. I have a '95 3.8L that I just finished putting a new engine in. After a few set backs, I finally finished and got it on the road. (First time I've tackled something as major as an engine replacement, first Mustang I've ever owned. It wasn't running when I got it.) The first drive was fine, ran a little rough for a bit, but smoothed out. I took it out again, and with only about 20 miles on the new engine, the check engine light came on. The heater was originally working fine, but now I'm not getting any heat. The coolant seems to be circulating through the engine just fine. I noticed that the air conditioner condenser has moisture forming on it. (No, I don't have the A/C on.) I also noticed that if I accelerate gently, everything is fine, but if I give it a little more gas I get a rattling/ticking sound. It seems to be coming from behind the intake plenum, near the firewall.

I'm not sure what could be going on and I'm hoping someone here with more experience could help point me in the right direction.

Any suggestions?

Thanks in advance.

Wildwisc

The thermostat perhaps?

Obsequious1

Is this engine brand new or is it a rebuilt one. If it was rebuilt, I'd ask about a warranty. The coolant should never be flowing before the engine warms up just so you know. The noise has me boggled though.??

RUDEDOG.357

probably got air in the cooling system or the timing is off and engine is pinging.