I'm currently studying the possibility of swapping my 97 Expedition EB 5.4 4WD’s engine and tranny with one from the 99 Lightning. What I have gathered so far (mostly from posts in this bb) is that I would be needing the Lightning stock computer, instrument cluster, and the COP ignition to be able to do the transplant. I already have the lightning wheels and the front bumper and grille assembly. Brembo brakes for the Expedition are on order.

My questions are:

What other parts are needed to be able to successfully execute this transplant?

For those who already have purchased the lightning crate engine, what parts still need to be purchased (i.e. pulleys? Belts? Airbox?) Part numbers would be very much appreciated!

I understand that the transmission is the 4R100…is this exactly the same as the one in the diesels? Do they have the same part number?

Does anybody have the part numbers and pricing info on the COP ignition, instrument cluster and the computer module?

Mike Troyer mentioned that I might be needing a custom driveshaft. Can anyone ascertain this? I checked and it seems that the wheelbase of both the Lightning and the Expedition are the same at 119.8 inches.

Lastly, what suspension mods to the stock Expedition, other than the wider, lower profile tires, would I be need to keep the truck from tipping over at (increased) speed? I don’t want to lower the truck more than necessary.

I need to get all this information sorted out before buying a single part cause I live halfway around the world from most of you.

Thanks for any info you guys might have and care to post. Kudos to all for the quality of this bb and for being such a great source of info!

(This was cross-posted to the Lightning forum, btw)

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Thunder
rainmaker@attglobal.net

Black 97 Expedition EB 5.4L 4WD

Mods: Lightning Wheels, Pirelli Scorpion Zero 285/55/18, K&N Gen II Kit, JET Chip

Audio: McIntosh MX406, McIntosh MCD4000, Zapco SX-SL, Zapco EQ30, Genesis Monoblocks (3), Genesis Dual Mono, Dynaudio System 340, Dynaudio System 220, JL Audio Stealthbox

 

I suspect at least two additional items will be required. One is the Lightning Wiring harness, and two is someone that can merge that into your existing vehicle.

If you really want to do this, I would suggest trying to find a 'rolled' Lightning or comparable that has no drivetrain damage. It might be easier to get everything this way rather than one piece at a time.

Good Luck

[This message has been edited by HCBPH (edited 01-08-2000).]

 

Pheew, thatll be a doozy! Let us know how she runs...

 

The Lightning trans is not identical to the diesel trans. The case is different (bellhousing), and there are a few other differences. The order code for a Lightning trans is also different from a diesel trans. Your best bet is a wrecked Lightning. They're out there. I'm sure some spoiled rich high schooler has already totaled the Lightning his daddy bought for him! Expect to pay big bucks to the salvage yard tho.

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'93 Regular Cab XLT Shortbed, 5.0, K&N, Borla, 160,000 miles; Future Expedition owner.

 

Thanks for the replies!

Any part numbers perhaps?

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Thunder
rainmaker@attglobal.net

Black 97 Expedition EB 5.4L 4WD

Mods: Lightning Wheels, Pirelli Scorpion Zero 285/55/18, K&N Gen II Kit, JET Chip

Audio: McIntosh MX406, McIntosh MCD4000, Zapco SX-SL, Zapco EQ30, Genesis Monoblocks (3), Genesis Dual Mono, Dynaudio System 340, Dynaudio System 220, JL Audio Stealthbox