I've got a 2003 convertible, 3.8 V-6/automatic with 130,000 miles on it...been a GREAT daily driver even though the mileage is not that good. Anyway, under heavy acceleration the engine over-revved and I got a sudden loud ticking. Me being the optimist, I thought I just had a lifter give out on me at first so I put a new set in.... no luck. I'm pretty sure it's a spun bearing, not sure if it's the rod or crank, but of course either one SUCKS. I'm going to take this opportunity to do a nice build-up of the stock engine, but with it being my daily driver I need to get it back on the road ASAP. My plan is to buy a complete used engine to stick in it so I can take my time and rebuild my original...bigger, stronger, faster :-)

My question is this: assuming I find something that requires me to use my original intake, accessory drives, etc., what is the earliest 3.8 that I can directly swap into my car without having to worry that some of my parts won't bolt up correctly, or the computer might cause problems with? Feel free to give specifics, or any other issues I might need to look out for along the way. Also, I have access to both, so would I be better off putting the car on a lift and dropping the engine/tranny out the bottom, or putting it on ramps to loosen everything and lifting just the motor out the top?

I'm an old school mechanic, done several engine swaps/rebuilds in my younger days (I'm 45) and ALWAYS do my own car work big or small... but I guess it's been so long since I've had to do anything of this scale I want to make sure I cover my bases before I start. Thanks for any help!

Mike

 

Sounds like you spun a bearing, have fun with that one.
If you are looking to do some kind of swap without re-tuning the computer then i would go for a 01-04 3.8L shortblock, all of your acessories will bolt right up. If you get a hand held tuner then I would go for a 97-01 F150 4.2L, everything wil bolt up to that shortblock as well.

 

Id go with the 4.2. Might as well upgrade!

http://www.mustangevolution.com/forum/t9601/

^^Theres just about all you need to know.