If you are considering how to boost the power and performance of your car, one of the first things that may have come to mind is an engine swap. Thanks to advances in how engines have developed over the last decade, it is more possible than ever to swap an engine from a different vehicle into yours so that you can enjoy greater horsepower. A Coyote swap is one possible option, but before you begin, you should know what you need so that you can be prepared. No one wants to find that they are missing a piece when they begin their car project.
Why Coyote and Not LS?
For many people, the prime choice for an engine swap is the LS engine. This is typically the engine people select because it is smaller and easier to work with and install. However, Coyote engines have benefits of their own, such as being able to rev much higher than LS engines due to the variable valve timing of their design.
If the larger model Coyote can fit into your vehicle, it is a solid choice for an engine swap, which can be modified to exceed even 1,000 horsepower if that is your goal.
Choosing the Motor Itself
Not all motors will fit, which means that you are limited to 96-04 motor mounts. This places your options among motors such as the Ford Racing Aluminator 5.0L Crate Engine, Ford Racing Aluminator Crate Engine/Supercharged Applications 5.0L, Ford Racing NMRA Coyote Stock Sealed Racing Engine M-6007-M50S or even the M-6007-M50 Racing Coyote.
In the end, the motor to choose will depend upon your goals, and there is no single best answer for everyone. If you are not sure which option is best suited for your project, reach out to pros with experience at an engine swap or auto restoration shop.
Which Transmission Works Best?
Many types of transmission can work with a Coyote, but you will likely need to perform a little bit of modification to make the setup work. A Quicktime bellhousing can make a T-5 workable, while a 4R70W requires an 8 bolt flexplate in order to install seamlessly. Depending on the car body and transmission you choose, you may also need to replace or modify the driveshaft or crossmember to fit everything correctly. Many common transmission options such as the 03-04 Cobra t56 work as a bolt up application.
Connecting the Motor
Headers and midpipes are the next pieces to consider as you evaluate how to connect the new features of your car together. Both BBK and Kooks now offer specifically crafted Coyote swap headers, allowing you to simply select a Coyote swap midpipe and bolt it in with a catback. If you are using a stock k-member, you will need to focus on some minor clearance control, but this is a small task that should not pose much of an issue.
Modifying Oil Pans
As with many other parts of a vehicle, once you swap in a new engine, you will need to modify your selected oil pan to clear the swap headers when you install. For 96-04 k-member setups from the factory, Canton or Moroso oil pans for Coyote swaps are the best choice since they bolt directly to the motor while still giving the space needed for the engine.
Other Equipment Needed
The other equipment needed to complete a Coyote swap will depend upon your final goals for the vehicle in terms of horsepower, control and other factors. However, in general, do not forget your swap pedal brackets, or you can simply opt for a racing controls pack.
A manual brake set or hydroboost could also be helpful for your project, and depending upon the choices you have made for your specific goals, you may need special bellhousing, flywheel and clutch setups. Do not forget that alterations will also be required, so have the tools on hand to alter the radiator inlet to fit the hose if required and change the locations of brackets so that the sway bar (if you choose to keep it) gives enough room to the Coyote’s alternator.
The Pro Coyote Swap and Auto Restoration Experts Can Help
Whether you are working on an engine swap on your own and need a little assistance or would like to leave the process to the pros, be sure to rely on a shop that you can trust. Robs Customs & Restorations would be happy to help you build the ideal car for your goals. Reach out to them to discuss your vision for your vehicle and receive the help you need during your Coyote engine swap.