The transmission is a major factor to consider when converting to modern drivetrain components. In particular, you must determine fitment in the transmission tunnel and shifter location. Modern transmissions, with their additional gears and capabilities, are considerably larger than their older counterparts, and there are many horror stories of chopped transmission tunnels to make the […]

This chapter discusses the systems external to the engine and should be considered when swapping a modular engine into any chassis. Items such as cooling, ignition, and gauges need to be designed to take advantage of some of the improvements of the modular engine over earlier V-8 designs.   This Tech Tip is From the […]

As I stated in the introduction, the goal of this book is not to make you an expert on building a monster modular engine. The goal is to help you get the engine in your chassis and make you aware of the options available for the project. The fuel system is a prime example because […]

Even though modular engines were delivered with mass air intake systems, you don’t have to stick with Ford’s design. The aftermarket intake manufacturers have offered a wide selection of units for modular engines over the years, so you should find an air delivery system that fits the look and feel of your conversion project.   […]

Once you have chosen an engine, it is time to select a computer and wiring harness to control the engine. While many industry names have been used to describe the computer that controls the engine, Ford refers to its system as the Powertrain Control Module or PCM. Wiring the system is the most difficult part […]

One of the biggest intimidation factors for fitting the modular engine is the size of the engine compared to all but the big-block applications of the past. The engine is fairly wide compared to pushrod applications, which can present challenges for engine installation. The way Ford has designed the engine mounting can also be a […]

The Ford modular engine has a long, varied, and unique history that has spanned more than 25 years, with many component, year, and factory of manufacture differences. With this storied and distinguished history, you need to recognize that all modular engines were not created equal. The only thing these engines really have in common is […]

In 1991 Ford introduced its overhead camshaft V-8 in the Lincoln Town Car and labeled it the modular engine. The label came from the method of producing the engine, not the fact that parts are easily interchanged between engine configurations. Eventually it was installed in the full-size Ford Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis, and the […]