Ok, so I have finally saved up some cash (almost $4,000) and I am trying to look for a way to get close to 400hp as cheaply as possible (I want some leftovers). I realize that cheap and 400hp don't normally go together, but I am trying to find methods. My truck is my daily driver, and will continue to be my dd after the install, so I want something reliable, and will only need me to not have my truck for a few days (install of a new engine maybe?). It also needs to tow from time to time (not alot), but is also something fun to have in the desert, and maybe the drag strip. The methods I am thinking about are the lightning swap (find a lightning engine from a wrecked lightning, although this may be difficult to come by), build a new 4.6l 2v n/a, supercharge my current or new 4.6l, or build a new 5.4l n/a or supercharged. Just looking for opinions of what can be done as cost effectively as possible, but still provide a great motor. The methods above are ones that I have though about and have come across articles about that I will post the links to below. If there are others, let me know! After I decide and begin to proceed with the project, I will try and start another post with pictures, and information about my progress if or when I start.

My Current truck: 2001 4.6l XLT f150 Ext. cab- 4x4
Lightning swap: Was performed on Extreme 4x4 (link to first episode)- http://www.powerblocktv.com/episodes...jeep-tj-part-1
New N/A 4.6l: sporttruck.com- http://www.sporttruck.com/techarticl...r/viewall.html
Supercharge 4.6l- Cannot remember where, but have heard SOME mustang supercharger kits may work for the f150
Supercharge 5.4l- I have found alot of lightning superchargers and intakes on Craigslist, but not full engines. I might be able to pick up an old 5.4l, swap out the connecting rods, pistons, and maybe crankshaft, and install lightning supercharger.

Again, the methods above are ideas that I have heard about, and have spent some time looking into, and some may be achievable with my budget (almost 4 grand).
Thanks in advance!

 

there's a swap in the classifieds for a 5.4, with 10# of boost you'll make over 400 fwhp on a N/A 5.4 motor

 

and thats about the ONLY way to get there.

 

The only 4.6 that came supercharge from factory were the "Terminator" Cobras (03-04?) but they were 4v
Your best bet is to do the L swap (which Im currently in the process of just trying to find all the parts) Its fairly simple to do just hard to find all the parts. Theyres quite a few guys that have done the swap on here and if they cant help you check out lightning rodder. And if you have any questions dont be afraid to PM me and Ill do my best to help you or steer you to someone who can.

 

http://inlandempire.craigslist.org/pts/4409595997.html

http://eastnc.craigslist.org/pts/4367601203.html

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Paxton-Novi-2000-centrifical-supercharger-for-Ford-Lightning-F150-Explorer-5-4-/171289981900?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item27e1adb3cc&vxp=mtr
http://www.hotrod.com/techarticles/e...otor_for_2298/

I personally would not pay the ultra inflated prices people ask for the L swap stuff on ebay. I sold a less then 10k mile l swap complete minus the alt and bracket with new air aid intake,new auxiliary idler,new 10lbs lower pulley and a bunch of other crap for $1600 a few yrs back.

IMO the 112 is a Flam thrower. Excellent for towing and 4x4 and short spirited driving. Under performer on the hwy and offers dimensioning returns in a sustained boost situation. For 90% of the pop it's a perfect match. It should fit your intended use to a T.

You already have the 4.6 so there are other options open to you. Like you've already said you can mod mustang take off parts. Should be a little easier to score good deals since everyone has moded them.


With 4k and some half way decent fabricating skills you could build a sweet turbo set up. The hot side parts are all over the place. Checkout theturboforums.com and you'll see what I'm talking about. I wish I had gone the route from the getgo.

 

Thanks for the feedback. I am going to spend some more time shopping around, and seeing if I can find most of the parts before I proceed. The only thing I am still wondering about is if I do get a n/a 5.4, and supercharge it, what are some things to think about to help the (probably old and used) motor withstand that much power? I have an idea of what to swap out, if I need to, but want to see opinions. I am excited to do this swap and cannot wait to get started.

 

IMHO if you want to keep the build cost down but still have room to grow just put decent rods & bearings,pistons and rings,with good fasteners for the rotating Assembly & heads. Then just boost the hell out of it.


My tuner here in reno has told me he's taken stock PI 5.4 2v's all the way upto 500 rwhp. I've read on l rodder some have taken them up to 550-600.

You just have to have good luck and a great tune. Either way the eaton should be able to get to the 400 mark with no sweat.

 

The 3v V10 will get you really close to a stock Lightning, but it fails to meet your short downtime requirements.

OK, I'm just being an attention *****...

 

Yes, you are...but it is a great setup, and I would do the same

 

Thanks, and I didn't take your original post (before you edited) as sarcastic at all.

 

I saw the first version post and thought it was funny and clearly sarcastic.