I thought about doing a 5.0 swap but this is my DD so i'd rather keep decent fuel mileage, my question is are all the right mounts there to just drop the 4.0 in? I wouldn't mind switching to auto as well, would that be big job? or should I just keep it 5-spd? also... what would be the best 4.0 motor to look for? power/ reliability wise? thanks in advance!

 

As far as I know you just need to change the motor mounts for the swap. The engine cross member is the same, I believe. You can switch to auto, it wouldn't be a bad time since you need a new trans anyways. You'll have to do your research on everything you need for the swap, but it has been done before. As for your original idea of a 5.0, they can get pretty much the same gas mileage as a 4.0. The motor isn't working as hard to move your truck.

 

I just don't really have the time to do the fabricating for a 5.0 swap unless they make a kit, but then i'm into running a cable for the clutch if I keep it 5-spd and that's to much work to justify what I want out of the truck.

but theoretically if I had an explorer donor everything should swap right in?

 

Search around for the 5.0 swap before you make your decision.

Parts will be around the same price. However the 5.0 should get better mileage.

FYI, explorer with Torque Monster Headers are known to get above 21 highway.

My personal best 4.0 mileage was 19.5 ish. Food for thought, Im swapping in a 5.0.