So, now I had a 4 cylinder Mustang that ran alright. But what teenager want's a slow 4 banger? Exactly. My initial plans were a fuel injected 351w with a C6 Transmission. But then I got to thinking, the whole drivetrain will need to be replaced along with the whole fuel system, suspension and alot of other things.

Don't get me wrong though, I love the 351w. It's just not the motor for my car. After some online surfing I discovered the Thunderbird Turbocoupe with it's 2.3L Turbocharged intercooled 4 banger. THAT was my motor! I found lot's of information on them, and how much potential they have. Best part of it all was; I can keep the 4 banger gas mileage and put out V8 power.

I was doing my regular Craigslist viewing and found something awesome. A 1986 Ford Ranger with a Turbocoupe engine, tranny, and interior swap! Initially the guy wanted $250 but after some talking I got him down to $150 and a full engine gasket set.

So one night in early November we went to meet the flatbed at the guy's house. Loaded it up in no time and we were on our way home. Now I had my motor.

Engine Removal, from Ranger

It was now late October, early November and it was time to pull the engine and bring it in for the winter. We did the pull in the backyard, only took a couple hours and we were done.

Tools used:

• Air gun
• Rachet 3/8" and 1/2"
• Impact sockets / regular sockets
• Wire cutters
• Cut off torch
• Screw Drivers

I started by disconnecting all wire, fuel, and coolant connections frrm the engine. Then I removed the turbocharger with the E6 exhaust manifold attached. The upper intake manifold and throttle body followed after that. Then the alternater and power steering pump.

The motor mounts were a pain but we got them off. My father used the cut-off torch to cut transmission cross member and the driveshaft. Finally we pulled the engine and transmission from truck and put in the back of the F150 to carry to the garage.

Engine Rebuild

It's August 13th and I'm begining the rebuild phase of my turbo engine! Here's a list of all the work done, parts bought, and cost of everything.

• Cylinder head, machine work done, valve job, new valve springs and seals, new cam bearings. -$290
• Re-built fuel injector's, new pintle caps, filters, and seals. -$14
• Sand blasted valve cover, paint coming soon. FREE
• Ranger roller cam, followers, and lifters. -$90
• Painted distributor silver with high-temp Duplicolor wheel paint. FREE
• Ordered new valve cover gasket, timing belt tensioner, Fel Pro head bolts, and timing belt. -$85