[fogged306]

I'm still looking around for a notch racecar project and I've been thinking of looking into a 4 cyl to start with as a possibility also. I'll be going with a carb'd 408 with a c4 probably so I won't be worrying about the engine, trans or FI. I know I'll need to change out the rear and front suspension too, but are there any other areas where they differed that I should know about before I open up a can of worms?

 

[Modified88Dreamer]

computer and wiring harness..... which can be a PITA

 

[86_Notch]

if you are going with a carbed windsor then save yourself a lot of money and get a 4 banger, you're going to swap everything out anyway, the only thing you'll be missing is an 8.8 rear ( and exhaust hangers ) but with the money you save by buying the 4 cyl instead of a v8 stang you can easily pick up a built 8.8. the body harness and engine harness are totally different, just take out the engine harness and all your lights, signals and stuff will still work. It's easier then you think, I did what you are doing and it was pretty easy.

 

[ReverendDexter]

The T-5 behind the 2.3L is weaker, and the automatic (A4LD) is JUNK.
No 8.8"
Fuel lines are routed differently
Cluster is slightly different (V8 actually rev's higher from the factory)
Front brakes are considerably smaller
Spring rates are softer all-around
Power steering pumps/racks are slightly different - I know all the mounting is the same, but mixing and matching them can lead to issues with steering
Transmission crossmember is different (single exhaust vs dual exhaust)

That's about all I can think of off the top of my head that hasn't been said already.

 

[fogged306]

if you are going with a carbed windsor then save yourself a lot of money and get a 4 banger, you're going to swap everything out anyway, the only thing you'll be missing is an 8.8 rear ( and exhaust hangers ) but with the money you save by buying the 4 cyl instead of a v8 stang you can easily pick up a built 8.8. the body harness and engine harness are totally different, just take out the engine harness and all your lights, signals and stuff will still work. It's easier then you think, I did what you are doing and it was pretty easy.

Thanks for the info. when I said rear and front suspension, I should have specified that I meant rear-end and front suspension. I'm more concerned with wheel bearing sizes, frame strength, brakes, things of that nature... which it seems like the brakes will need some upgrading too maybe according to the good reverend. The wiring I'm not worried about and I won't be keeping anything stock in the inside of the car, this will be a full race car so I'll be going as light as I can with it. Have you changed over your brakes on your car 86_Notch? I remember you saying you've ran in the 10's (I think) so if those 4cyl brakes stopped you fine then I just may keep them, who knows. I would like to do this on a budget.

EDIT: yea now I know where I saw you said you're running 10's... under your avatar.... I'm very pay attention good at.

 

[86_Notch]

oops i forgot about the cross member, but again no need to buy a v8 car for just the crossmember and rear. btw the 4 cylinder springs are EXCELLENT for transferring weight on launch and you'll need all the traction you can get with a 408 > : 0 )