stemo76

has anybody done the research on which ford 4.6 engine is best for the 280z. I have seen several different versions for sale on ebay and other sources. I doubt that I will afford the dohc option so that one I am not to interested in.

will the crown vics and truck engines be the same as the mustangs?

do I need to find an engine that had a manual tranny if I want to end up that way in the end?

Any years better than others?

nis88300zx

Your probably needing to go to hybridz.org
They're more into swaps than most people here.
Don't get me wrong you can find some answers here,but most of your questions can probably be answered at hybridz.org gl with your swap man.

datsunfreak

Step #1, you may want to take some measurements frist. The Ford OHC engine is VERY wide. Not sure it'll even fit...

Most of the difference is in the induction/ECU, not the long block.

Doesn't hurt, but that basically limits you to a Mustang engine. You can easily put the Mustang flywheel/clutch/trans on the Crown Vic engine.

Are you using stock engine management? I'd bet the pre-OBD2 Crown Vic engine will be easier to wire up.

theramz

I was thinking of that swap too. I measured the Crown Vic. It will clear the inner fenders but you might have to drill holes to access the spark plugs. I think the 4.6 single overhead cam will fit a lot better but they are still a little pricey. The 5.0 mustang engines (roller cam)are plentiful and are a lot less expensive to get 400hp with just bolt ons. The explorer V8 has the iron gt-40 heads with the bigger valves.

datsunfreak

Drill holes in the hood maybe...

The spark plugs are on top of the head, near the intake manifold.