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1994-1988 engine/trans swap...will it work?


GNRAxlRose88
01-29-2008, 11:08 PM
So lately i've had alot of stupid questions. Heres another.

I wrecked my '94 EB Bronco. Alas, i have a 1988 XLT being stored by a friend of mine. The '88 sat for a couple years before i bought it and now the motors not the best. Their both 302s, and i believe the trannys are both the same, however i'm not 100% sure, i am sure their both automatics. Is it possible, how hard would it be, and what would have to be changed? Thanks alot i appreciate it!

corkatoa
02-07-2008, 02:51 AM
I swapped a 92 5.0l into an 86 mustang. Basically same job. The only issue was with the computer, which required running wires to the mass air sensor from the computer. I used the original 86 harness, and added the wires externally. Schematic shows wiring differences.

Or you could just swap short block and use your 88 electrics, which really are more reliable, just less tuneable.

corkatoa
02-07-2008, 03:01 AM
More thoughts..
Its been a few years since I did this swap. Your 94 should be the same from after the mass air sensor. I think the only difference might be the fuel rail/injector setup, but it may be the same. You should be able to tell just by looking. I have put a 91 truck intake on a 5.0l mustang and had to change nothing. Another issue may be the o2 sensor, but that can be overcome by simply disconnecting them. Not letting them hang out, but undoing the harness so the computer ignores them.

GNRAxlRose88
02-22-2008, 01:41 AM
Sounds good. I was just wondering because I've done searches through junkyards and the motors don't match up between the two years, i figured maybe there was a change in the bellhousing bolts or wiring harness, something minor like that. I want to swap the whole motor and trans just to be safe. I believe the trannies are the same.

I'm unsure about some things because the wrecked 94 is in my garage here and the 88 is buried in a field in the snow 40 miles away. I don't want to start tearing into something if it won't work.

Also, i was told i might need to get a different driveshaft, how does that sound to you?

corkatoa
02-22-2008, 08:09 PM
I doubt you will need a different driveshaft. If you change out the transfer case, then maybe, but i doubt it even then. Check out Fullsizebronco.com, you will find out everything you will ever need to know. As well, I am removing my 5.0l and tranny to install a 6.0l turbo diesel in my 89 EB. I will have a lot of parts available in a few months. My engine has 80k on rebuild, and it and the tranny are perfect condition. Direct swap for absolutely sure to your 88.

GNRAxlRose88
02-27-2008, 10:49 PM
How much would you be willing to sell for? And what other parts will you have available?

Truck
04-15-2008, 12:44 PM
The main problem you'd have in the 94-88 swap would be the cam. From what I understand on the AF-the cams on the later 302's weren't compatible with the 80's models. You can get it in, and get it to run-you'd probably have some trouble keeping it running, tho'. The popular complaint I've read is that it will make a short trip, then refuse to bring you home. Do some research, and see what you can turn up.

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