Hello again,
Everyone did so well answering my question about my electrical 4WD problem that I thought I would pose a new question:
What interchangeability issues exist when swapping a newer 302 into a 1988 Bronco (also a 302).
My motor is pretty tired, so I was thinking about picking up a Mustang/Thunderbird/Truck motor and just swapping it in, rather than spending the time to rebuild what I have.
The question is whether or not that will be easy in the age of computerized engine management and sensors for everything.
Say for example, I found an early 90's Thunderbird with a 5L. Are there extra sensors on the newer motor, or are there components from my motor that no longer exist on the newer motor?
And if so....how do I go about addressing that? The Bronco has a huge mess of emissions-type stuff (for example: that stupid "coffee can" thing that is rusted out on every truck and Bronco I've looked at). Do I really NEED it all in order to get the truck to run properly. And what is a GOOD solution (i.e. not "yank it all, and then don't ever drive on a public road because your truck is no longer emissions legal") if I have to disconnect some of these things because they don't mate up with anything on the newer motor.
Conversely, if a newer motor has sensors or hookups that the old motor never had, how can I address that?
I'm used to working on my '71 Satellite, so for me it is pretty easy to swap a motor. I'm hoping someone can shed light on whether a motor swap in the Bronco is a worthwhile endeavour.
And while we're at it, even if I keep my old motor, are there things that can be safely disconnected under the hood? Do I really need all that emissions-era junk for the motor to run properly?
Thanks a lot for your help. Feel free to email me at snipped-for-privacy@hotmail.com.
Chris