General => User Rides => Topic started by: xjeffs on March 01, 2008, 10:16:34 PM
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on March 01, 2008, 10:16:34 PM
...I can post in this forum.
19 months I've been looking for an 88 xr7. I started a map over everywhere I was finding them. I found 25 white ones for sale across the US in the last year and about 20 black ones. Only three white ones had 100k miles or less. Most were 150k miles or more. Odd.
At least a dozen black ones came up with 100k miles or less. Two with 20k miles and a bunch with 50-70k miles. Enough of the trivia.
I actually found this car on Craigslist in Dallas (300 miles from me) in 12/06. He wanted $1500 but the dash was removed to be recovered. I tried to go up to see it, but it never worked out. I kept his contact info.
So we went to Dallas to see family and I saw it, and from advice I got here I offered $300 and he took it. Some assembly required.
The story is, the owner's brother in law was the original owner. The car is in good shape but its been sitting for three years (over two of it inside) with the dash out. 150k miles every option except sunroof. Gray unripped leather. Since he moved it outside, the steering wheel finish melted and the shifter handle is now shot. Been repainted but needs some overspray cleaned up. Needs Valve cover gaskets, and possibly another oil drip to address.
Surprise surprise, is started up and we drove it onto the trailer. I think the IAC is gummed because it takes a couple starts to get going (runs with the throttle blipped).
We were taking the kids to get ice cream tonight and I told my wife, "I can't believe there is a Cougar in my garage." I'll have to say it is exactly what I wanted, all the way down to the black turbines.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: grutinator on March 01, 2008, 11:25:47 PM
"I'll have to say it is exactly what I wanted, all the way down to the black turbines."
SEE! what did i tell you? patience really does pay off! congratulations on the find man. i really am happy for you.
:D
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: DVP on March 01, 2008, 11:27:05 PM
Quote from: xjeffs;207170
.
Anyone else find imageshack sucks?
YES! and looks like a great car. what are your plans after you get dash in?
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on March 01, 2008, 11:47:08 PM
Grut - yeah, I really appreciated your encouragement for patience. I had to keep remembering that it took me eight months in '90 to find my ^first white one.
c86_89 - T5, some head, I-E manifold,cam combo (or HO engine swap), TC rear. I dream of the IRS swap, but that ads five lugs, new springs, etc, and I love the turbines, :screwy: I know. If that's the case, black bullits. That's the dream, we'll see how that plays out. Its nice when you can apply money saved for the car towards the upgrades.
I'm going to start with plugs, oil, battery, tires, FI cleaner and clean the IAC, though. Driveable first...
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: daminc on March 02, 2008, 12:38:03 AM
Nice find, you really can't beat a price like that. think of it as a kit car with "some assembly required"
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: tc² on March 02, 2008, 12:49:21 AM
Lookin' good! Hell of a steal, congrats!
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: 1WLD BRD on March 02, 2008, 08:29:27 AM
nice find... I wonder how many '88 XR-7's there are on here now...
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: irv on March 02, 2008, 08:54:34 AM
CONGRATS! keep us posted on what you are doing to it. you will have a lot of fun and learn a lot too.--irv toms
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: thunderjet302 on March 04, 2008, 11:08:01 AM
Congrats! :D
You got a hell of a deal on it. Does it have digi guages or the buttstuffog ones?
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: Carl on March 05, 2008, 03:01:42 AM
Maaan that shines a good light on whether I should paint my turbines black or not. :]
NICE RIDE MAN!
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: mercury-man on March 05, 2008, 03:20:50 AM
:bowdown: xjeffs, Great find and congrats you waited long enough. :headbang: :headbang: :grinno:
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: TurboCoupe50 on March 05, 2008, 08:24:22 AM
Told ya so, nice score...
Nobody but a true enthusiast would would buy a car with the dash removed... Most would run away screaming(and probably did), so you got a great deal, if you don't mind doing some work...
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: Bob on March 05, 2008, 08:35:57 AM
Quote from: 1WLD BRD;207229
nice find... I wonder how many '88 XR-7's there are on here now...
I got one :)
Nice car btw, the paint looks pretty decent from the pics..
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: yellow86coogr on March 06, 2008, 02:28:45 PM
Nice find. I want that trailer when your done wit it :D
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: 5.0 tbird on March 06, 2008, 10:40:55 PM
That's a very nice score for 300. I would not put that dash back together without a new heater core though. :hick:
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on March 06, 2008, 10:52:24 PM
It has the digital gauges. I think I've decided on the dash cap instead of finding a good one. I can't see a good used one not cracking in Texas. Any opinions on the cap? Eric had a great writeup that convinced me to do it.
Actually the heat core is shot already so I am doing this before I put the dash back in. The AC is down, so I think I'm going to replace the evaporator too.
Thanks for all the comments guys. I'm going to start on it when I get the cap.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: CougarSE on March 07, 2008, 01:21:26 AM
Wow thats a great find. Car looks like its in great shape. I'll be installing a dash cap in my 88 TurboCoupe and in one of my 88 Cougar's.. The first 88 Cougar has a good dash.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: yellow86coogr on March 07, 2008, 05:08:05 AM
Quote
I would not put that dash back together without a new heater core though.
That would be a smart move.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: *MAYHEM* on March 07, 2008, 07:14:54 AM
Nice ride. Patience paid of for you.:cheers:
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: 88XR7 on March 10, 2008, 01:48:25 AM
Looks exactly like mine. Glad you could finally find something man.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on March 25, 2008, 10:17:37 PM
So here's the latest and some interior pics. The first picture is how I received it.
Does anyone notice what's different between pics 2 and 3 besides the wheel being gone? If you guessed the heater core is new, that's true too, but not what I'm looking for.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on March 25, 2008, 10:20:16 PM
Also got my Dashtop (cap). Found that the sides are too big and will need to be trimmed. A guy at work suggested a dremmel, which I thought was a good idea.
Here are pics of where it is too big. I'll update on the process of tpuppies it too.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: turboranger91 on March 26, 2008, 12:23:55 AM
good looking car, man. hell of a price too!
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: cougar1car on March 26, 2008, 10:23:37 AM
Quote from: xjeffs;210895
Does anyone notice what's different between pics 2 and 3 besides the wheel being gone? If you guessed the heater core is new, that's true too, but not what I'm looking for.
all the wires are wrapped up and looks a helluva lot better.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on March 26, 2008, 11:57:18 AM
Quote from: cougar1car;210943
all the wires are wrapped up and looks a helluva lot better.
Right. The old cloth tape had no adhesive and would fall apart in your hand. So I rewrapped it.
Currently I am looking for a good alarm system that has the two way pager function, key fob for door unlocks and would prefer the relay for windows, too.
If you have any good experiences with alarm systems, let me know. Now is the time to install it, so I'd like to order one soon.
Any help would be appreciated.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: DVP on March 26, 2008, 04:23:59 PM
Quote from: xjeffs;210954
Right. The old cloth tape had no adhesive and would fall apart in your hand. So I rewrapped it.
Currently I am looking for a good alarm system that has the two way pager function, key fob for door unlocks and would prefer the relay for windows, too.
If you have any good experiences with alarm systems, let me know. Now is the time to install it, so I'd like to order one soon.
Any help would be appreciated.
I have an AUTOPAGE 2 way on my can with the remote start and all. I can check the temp in my car from class. Good distance on it too. I got mine on the deal though still havent had any issues with it. remote takes a beating too. i drop my keys alot and the remote hangs out of my pocket so it hits alot. Good system though.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on May 22, 2008, 10:15:15 PM
Well, I got the dash cap glued down and everything looks good. It took quite a bit of tpuppies to get it to lay the way I wanted it too.
I trimmed about 1/8 - 1/4" off the entire windshield side and quite a bit off the door jam sides so that it would sit flush.
Glued it down and got it installed with the gauges. It's become my DD since the starter went out on the other car. Also got some new BFG shoes.
Also did the Digi-gauge 199 mph conversion.
I gotta say, Discount Tires is awesome. That's been the only place I've bought tires over the last ten years, and this experience is as great as all the others. They had the tires on in 20 minutes, didn't abuse the car in the process, used the impact gun gently and torqued the lugs down with a TORQUE WRENCH. I was shocked.
It actually runs pretty well for sitting so long. The RM seal is dripping pretty good. So I can't DD it for long. My last day at work is tomorrow and we ship the two cars next week to Iowa, so this won't last long.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: fordguy545 on May 22, 2008, 10:48:35 PM
where did you get the dash cap? I had a perfect factory dash in my car till a couple weeks ago when I noticed a crack going from the defrost vent to the speaker grill on the drivers side:mad:
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on May 22, 2008, 11:50:48 PM
From this guy on ebay.
http://motors.search.ebay.com/_W0QQsassZazbobQ2a1
There is one issue. It doesn't fit well around side defogger vents for the door windows and the vents sink in through the cap.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on May 29, 2008, 11:40:17 AM
I've been driving the Cougar around for about a week and I remember why I like this car so much. It fits like a glove. No other car fits me like this one. All other ones feel like armrests, seats or steering wheel isn't in the right spot.
Oh and the big news is I picked up a T5, PP, clutch flywheel, cross member, bellhousing, driveshaft, pro 5.0 shifter yesterday in time for them to load it on the truck to Iowa. I'm stoked.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: V8Demon on May 29, 2008, 12:01:50 PM
Quote
where did you get the dash cap?
http://www.dashtops.com/
Title: Cougar #2!!!!!!!
Post by: xjeffs on October 27, 2008, 10:40:02 PM
Well, the cougar has been my daily driver since June 2 and done well. I left the key on all night and apparently jumping the battery I fried the alternator and started draining the battery. So I replaced that.
Considering itshiznitting 20 tonight and snowed last night, I plumbed the new heater core up and it works great. So all is well on Cougar #1's front. #1 you say? "That must mean you have another," and I do.
I currently have Texas car with a great body and shot interior. I picked up the exact same car (black with gray leather) in Chicago for $400. TOTALLY rotted out, but a great interior with a crackfree dash.
So needless to say I'll be parting this and junking it. I'm keeping the interior, hood, headlights but parting it as much as possible. PM me and let me know what you want. I may not get to it right away but will keep a list for when I start stripping it. I'll also post in the 4 sale section when I'm ready.
Here it is.
*BTW why does the word "c*r*a*c*k" get censored?
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: vinnietbird on October 27, 2008, 11:20:37 PM
Nice find.More pics please.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: V8Demon on October 28, 2008, 08:36:14 AM
Interesting rims....What are they?
crack crack crack
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: 5.0 tbird on October 28, 2008, 12:45:54 PM
Can't wait to see more pics.
I think those are some kind of Centerline wheel.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on October 28, 2008, 01:57:19 PM
Thanks for the crack test
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: daminc on October 28, 2008, 06:24:53 PM
More pics, More pics
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: thunderjet302 on October 28, 2008, 06:51:59 PM
You won't be driving Cougar #1 in the snow right? I hope not:D
Was Cougar #2 on the Chicago Craigslist? I think I saw that car on there for $1200. It didn't look that rotted out in the pics though.....
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: Blackout on October 28, 2008, 07:00:08 PM
What??
Where are the Turbines??? If they are for sale, I WANT THEM!
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: Blackout on October 28, 2008, 07:01:17 PM
Oh... wait......
Dammit. Ive been looking for black turbines....:(
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on October 28, 2008, 09:44:40 PM
Quote from: thunderjet302;240757
You won't be driving Cougar #1 in the snow right? I hope not:D
Was Cougar #2 on the Chicago Craigslist? I think I saw that car on there for $1200. It didn't look that rotted out in the pics though.....
I'm looking for a winter car, so yes my Texas car will be stored when salt hits.
And the turbines were long gone.
This is the one you saw on Craigslist for $1200. I went and looked at it on my way to Detroit. Interior good, exterior unbelievably bad. I'll get some more pics of the rot. If you remember the ad said "fast and loud". Well, that was because half the dual exhaust was missing. The door latch doesn't work so the door bounces back open when you close it. The radio is gone. There was no oil on the dipstick when I checked, so when I went to drive it, the oil light was still on. I turned around and said I can give you parts money for this car. He called me up a few months later and said he'd take my offer if I could get it in two days. I Fedexed the money to a guy I know that has a garage a few miles from him, he dropped it off and I went and got it the next day.
It actually drives around, no real issues with the engine or trans. The big thing this gives me is a guide to assemble my own dash.
It's hard to get pics when the sun is setting at 6pm. But I will.
Title: More rusty pics
Post by: xjeffs on October 28, 2008, 10:27:03 PM
Here are some pics.
Maybe I will just drive this one through the winter. It needs a new heater core, though.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on October 28, 2008, 10:31:28 PM
More pics
And the rims are American Racing rims.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on October 28, 2008, 10:33:34 PM
The headlights cleaned up really well. Some of the chrome faded on one of them when I was using hot water to get the lens off.
The corners did not and are cracked. They are actually better on the Texas car.
The really sad thing is that I think the paint is original. It actually shines up nice when polished.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: thunderjet302 on October 28, 2008, 11:46:58 PM
So that was the car. Holy hell is it rotted. I wouldn't drive it over the winter. Looks like it's about ready to fall apart.....
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: 5.0 tbird on October 29, 2008, 08:10:43 PM
That car is done. It looks like it spent it's whole life as a winter beater. The seats look decent though.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on October 29, 2008, 08:57:22 PM
The car only had 100,000 on it, but you're right they may have only brought it out for the winter.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: DVP on October 29, 2008, 09:28:30 PM
I would drive it though winter as long as the frame was semi solid. Doesnt look like it would be great but enough to make it though the winter maybe. As long as the boxes where ok, tank straps, and the rails arent too bad I would try and make it though the winter.
On second thought those strut towers dont look so good. If you do drive it, pull the dash since you have to anyways, do the heater core, and leave it out. No need in doing work that isnt needed.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on October 29, 2008, 11:12:17 PM
Good point about the torque boxes and tank straps. I'm not driving it. When something crumbles I'm screwed at 10 degrees.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on May 24, 2009, 11:07:27 PM
I took the last few photos at the house we were renting while we looked for a house to buy. We lived here in limbo for 11 months. We found a great house with land that had everything I wanted AND everything my wife wanted. We love it. We've been in for two weeks and I wanted to seal the garage floor before I brought the toys over. It was getting to be a pain and I almost blew it off, but I'm glad I finally got it done. I brought the cars over and there is so much space in the garage that I can open the Cougar doors all the way without touching. As you'll notice I have to clean out the final bay for the wife.
Here's the pics. I just can't believe I ended up with such a great garage.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on May 24, 2009, 11:08:27 PM
one more
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on May 24, 2009, 11:12:53 PM
I did quite a few parts swaps so far. Good center console stuff, lid, switch plate. Gonna probably swap the dash and get the harness installed properly while I look for a good late Explorer P 5.0L. I have a t5 I'm going to start prepping for installation.
The rust bucket has great original-paint mirrors, hood, trim etc. Lots of good stuff that the Texas car does not.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: Beau on May 25, 2009, 02:02:02 AM
Amazing! That garage is sweet man. The fact that you have a nice Cougar and another one with good parts...you suck! ;):bowdown:
PS...you need a Bird in that other stall lol
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: DVP on May 25, 2009, 04:02:46 AM
Land and a big ass garage! Plus what your wife wanted, who did you have to kill?
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: Chooglin on May 25, 2009, 08:43:16 AM
very nice garage.it looks like there is plenty of room in there.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: daminc on May 25, 2009, 09:10:33 AM
I love a good garage
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: baxo on May 25, 2009, 10:18:27 AM
that's an awesome garage!
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: 85TBird5ltr on May 25, 2009, 10:24:07 AM
Love that garage... Plenty of room to work on the toys and nothing else ..Right???? dont wanna scratch the cat or that kick ass jag=] And there right you need a bird in there for the cats to play with=] muhaha
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: TurboCoupe50 on May 25, 2009, 11:17:09 AM
Nice!!!
Now don't do like myself, I have a 32' X 40' TWO story garage and at the moment can barely get ONE car in it...
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: DVP on May 25, 2009, 11:24:10 AM
Quote from: TurboCoupe50;274235
Nice!!!
Now don't do like myself, I have a 32' X 40' TWO story garage and at the moment can barely get ONE car in it...
Sound like my family. Would love to park in our garage, instead it is used as storage for my mothers minus the stuff that actually belongs in a garage. That is why my room has been overtaken by parts.
I say if it isnt too expensive or difficult to replace and you have saved it "just in case" but havent used it in a certain period of time :toilet:. Donate it, sell it, give it away, throw it away, whatever. Just dont let it overtake you...
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: massCougarxr7 on May 25, 2009, 11:32:35 AM
Nice setup jeff..
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on May 25, 2009, 12:41:16 PM
Quote from: FordTruckFreeek;274190
Amazing! That garage is sweet man. The fact that you have a nice Cougar and another one with good parts...you suck! ;):bowdown:
PS...you need a Bird in that other stall lol
Thanks. It was a two year process to accumulate the cars. I considered a bird... for a parts car.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: mercury-man on May 25, 2009, 05:11:39 PM
Jeff, Your Garage looks very spacious and the "rides" look right at home now. :poke: :grinno:
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: HAVI on May 25, 2009, 05:24:52 PM
Sweet! what size is the garage?
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on May 25, 2009, 06:06:34 PM
The garage is 1100 sq feet. It's interesting too, because the previous owner had the house built, but wasn't a car guy. He did have some wood working tools, though.
It's a neighborhood with 1.5 to 3 acre lots. My wife has her neighbors and huge walk in pantry. The lawn is quite a handful. Dandelions are taking over.
We had a few houses fall through and were bummed, but ended up with something better than we had seen all year. Patience and prayer got us in this house.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: 86XR7project on May 25, 2009, 06:10:22 PM
Hey Jeff, did you still move to the Waterloo area? Looks like you ended up with the perfect garage size! When are we gonna start tearing the parts car up ;)? We don't have a lawn anymore either, ours is mainly dandilions too. Congrats on finding your home and getting the perfect garage!!
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on May 25, 2009, 06:13:59 PM
Quote from: 86XR7project;274305
Hey Jeff, did you still move to the Waterloo area? Looks like you ended up with the perfect garage size! When are we gonna start tearing the parts car up ;)? We don't have a lawn anymore either, ours is mainly dandilions too. Congrats on finding your home and getting the perfect garage!!
Our house is right on the Waterloo/Cedar Falls/Hudson boarder. We're really close to the Harley dealer on 63.
Looking forward to having you down, Brett and seeing your setup, too.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: HAVI on May 25, 2009, 08:45:17 PM
1100=32x34 or so. Nice!
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on May 25, 2009, 09:12:10 PM
Quote from: HAVI;274324
1100=32x34 or so. Nice!
38x30 & 26
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: 86XR7project on May 26, 2009, 10:03:20 AM
Yeah, I need to get my fuel pump in and get my rust holes welded up it will be driveable. But I'd love to come out sometime and hang out. Its nice to have a few guys on here from the Iowa area. :D
Title: Piddly little updates that make me happy
Post by: xjeffs on July 27, 2009, 10:45:13 PM
The hood off the rust bucket actually shined up really nice, so I did a hood swap, broke apart the headlights and cleaned and re-glued them and polished the signal lenses.
The nose of the car looks much better. Paint still looks bad on the roof and trunk. I may take a spray can to them for the time being.
Some of the garage pictures show how bad the hood and lamps were.
Also swapped grills, although both need to be repainted.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: mercury-man on July 27, 2009, 11:26:28 PM
Very nice and thanks for your pics friend. :cool:
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: Watchdevil on July 27, 2009, 11:28:38 PM
Quote from: TurboCoupe50;207745
Told ya so, nice score...
Nobody but a true enthusiast would would buy a car with the dash removed... Most would run away screaming(and probably did), so you got a great deal, if you don't mind doing some work...
I have become an expert in dash removal and reassembly on these cars! LOL! I would never be scared!
Anyway, thats a really great find! It's good to hear when someone finds what they want. These are such great cars and stylistically they stand on their own and make quite a statement. I have fallen for these cars so much more now that I am back in the game among them.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: Watchdevil on July 27, 2009, 11:30:37 PM
Quote from: xjeffs;284155
The hood off the rust bucket actually shined up really nice, so I did a hood swap, broke apart the headlights and cleaned and re-glued them and polished the signal lenses.
The nose of the car looks much better. Paint still looks bad on the roof and trunk. I may take a spray can to them for the time being.
Some of the garage pictures show how bad the hood and lamps were.
Also swapped grills, although both need to be repainted.
Those turbine wheels look so good in black. That may end up being my interim choice for wheels on my black Tbird.
Anyway, you are on the way to having a nicely finished car!
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: 50tbrd88 on July 27, 2009, 11:36:50 PM
Coming along nicely...the black turbines do look very nice on there.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on July 27, 2009, 11:51:25 PM
Well herein lies a new problem. I'm considering getting a Cobra IRS that's for sale locally. I would then officially be done with the turbines then:( and I really like them
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: 86XR7project on July 28, 2009, 09:16:00 AM
Jeff, the car looks absolutely fantastic man. I love those turbines! Trust me they look better than the 8 hole "Phone dial" wheels on my car.... :(
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: V8Demon on July 28, 2009, 09:25:28 AM
Your fenders line up with your hood.......You've just reminded me (AGAIN) that my hood springs are done....
Looks good!
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: 1WLD BRD on July 28, 2009, 05:01:21 PM
looks good, the IRS would be cool, I have thought about putting one of those in mine...
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on July 28, 2009, 11:05:16 PM
BTW, see the four eyed mustang in the background? There's a 2005 FordGT behind one garage door and a 68 Mustang GT500 fastback behind the other.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: 86XR7project on July 29, 2009, 09:21:15 AM
Quote from: xjeffs;284323
BTW, see the four eyed mustang in the background? There's a 2005 FordGT behind one garage door and a 68 Mustang GT500 fastback behind the other.
Is that in Waterloo? I wasn't aware we had anyone in the area with a GT. I know there is a guy in Dike that has a Ferarri (Can't remember the model) and a Lamborghini Countach.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: RoyLPita on July 29, 2009, 09:41:22 AM
Keep up the good work.
I like that house!!!!
The last garage that I saw pictures of that had enough space to store that many vehicles was in Quebec.
BTW, according to EricCoolCats's site, the painted tubine wheels were standard while the argent ones were a no charge option.
If you do decide to part out the rusty XR7, give me an idea of a price for all of the components and wiring needed for the auto headlamp system (that is if it has the option).
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on July 29, 2009, 10:39:19 PM
Yeah we're in Waterloo. Surprising that there is one of those in town. I looked out my window one morning and saw it driving by, then slow down and turn in across the street. Shocked.
I am going to part that Cougar some day. It doesn't have alot of options, so no auto headlamps.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: RoyLPita on July 30, 2009, 07:15:49 AM
Quote from: xjeffs;284455
Yeah we're in Waterloo. Surprising that there is one of those in town. I looked out my window one morning and saw it driving by, then slow down and turn in across the street. Shocked.
I am going to part that Cougar some day. It doesn't have alot of options, so no auto headlamps.
Thanx for letting me know.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: 86XR7project on July 30, 2009, 08:44:23 AM
Quote from: xjeffs;284455
Yeah we're in Waterloo. Surprising that there is one of those in town. I looked out my window one morning and saw it driving by, then slow down and turn in across the street. Shocked.
I am going to part that Cougar some day. It doesn't have alot of options, so no auto headlamps.
If it was a Dodge product I would have said it was Dan Deery but I think he lives in Cedar Falls and still drives his Dodge Viper. We have a few guys out by me that have the new GT500 (That shocked me) that GT might be Bill Colwell's car ;).
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on July 30, 2009, 10:43:48 AM
Quote from: 86XR7project;284494
If it was a Dodge product I would have said it was Dan Deery but I think he lives in Cedar Falls and still drives his Dodge Viper. We have a few guys out by me that have the new GT500 (That shocked me) that GT might be Bill Colwell's car ;).
The guy is a professor at UNI that races open wheeled Mazda's on the weekend. He flies around the country to meet his team for the next race. Champ of his division for 6 straight years.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: 86XR7project on July 30, 2009, 03:18:26 PM
Wow, pretty neat!
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: DVP on July 30, 2009, 06:25:40 PM
Quote from: xjeffs;284502
The guy is a professor at UNI that races open wheeled Mazda's on the weekend. He flies around the country to meet his team for the next race. Champ of his division for 6 straight years.
I wish I had cool neighbors....
Title: Huge change of plans!!!
Post by: xjeffs on August 17, 2009, 09:44:18 PM
As you hear so many times on this forum, I found a deal I couldn't pass up.
My original plans were to take the Explorer GT40p engine and do a cam, headers and cal. Well I've abandoned that plan, because the dream plan popped up in my face and I snapped it up without much thought.
See pics:
A 2008 Mustang 4.6L 3v with 17K miles and it came with an unmutilated harness, ECM, starter, full front accessory drive, full clutch kit, etc. It was a great deal, so I drove to Chicago to get it.
Now all I need to do is get the MAF set up, pedal input, get past anti-theft, etc, etc, get a different trans, etc, etc.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on August 17, 2009, 09:45:30 PM
Oh and my 5.0L T5 is now for sale. Its a 92 WC; 1st 3.35, 5th .68?
Includes flywheel, bell, fork, clutch (done), PP, full drive shaft.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: HAVI on August 17, 2009, 10:49:08 PM
Quote from: xjeffs;287012
Oh and my 5.0L T5 is now for sale.
I didn't read back, but is the T5 a WC?
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: V8Demon on August 17, 2009, 11:13:07 PM
I'll be keeping my Mustang away from YOU!!!!
LOL
I haven't heard of anyone swapping a 3valve into a Fox yet. I know you can purchase the pedal input separately. What are you planning on transmission-wise?
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on August 17, 2009, 11:17:45 PM
Quote from: HAVI;287025
I didn't read back, but is the T5 a WC?
Yes it is a 92 WC. I tried to verify that by the tag but it is missing. It does use the red ATF (WC only) and has a 3.35 first gear, which is correct for the 92-3.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on August 17, 2009, 11:21:35 PM
Quote from: V8Demon;287033
I'll be keeping my Mustang away from YOU!!!!
LOL
I haven't heard of anyone swapping a 3valve into a Fox yet. I know you can purchase the pedal input separately. What are you planning on transmission-wise?
I'm glad you mentioned your mustang cuz I might need you to snap a pic or two on some mounting stuff or whatever if you don't mind.
I actually have a pedal potentiometer that I doubt will work, or I'll get the stock one.
I'm looking at the t56 or SN95 T3650.
The deal came with the 08 3650 but that has a remote shifter instead of the toploader so it wouldn't work and I talked the guy into just the engine.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: V8Demon on August 17, 2009, 11:25:03 PM
Sounds good ;)
Lemme know what pics you need when the time comes :burnout:
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: 1WLD BRD on August 18, 2009, 08:30:11 AM
That would be a cool swap, I was thinking of going with one of those for my MN12 Cougar...
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: 86XR7project on August 18, 2009, 08:43:41 AM
Wow Jeff, let me know if want any help! I am jobless for now so I am free whenever ;)
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: 1986Élan on August 18, 2009, 09:03:13 AM
Hey jeffs i was wondering what are the measurments of those bf goodrichs 215/60/15?
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on August 18, 2009, 01:27:34 PM
Quote from: 86XR7project;287062
Wow Jeff, let me know if want any help! I am jobless for now so I am free whenever ;)
Sorry to hear about the job. Let's get together over the next couple weeks. I won't be starting the build for a bit, but it would be good to meet and chat.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on August 18, 2009, 09:52:46 PM
The BFG meats are 235/60/15's. I like the how they look fatter.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: gumby on August 18, 2009, 10:19:16 PM
Quote from: xjeffs;287011
Now all I need to do is get the MAF set up, pedal input, get past anti-theft, etc, etc, get a different trans, etc, etc.
skip the hassle and grab FMS p/n: M-6017-463V. its a complete control pack for the 3V; MAF, intake, pedal, PCM with ford racing calibration, OBDII port, everything. designed for street rod installation of a 3V, it should simplify your swap considerably.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: Black88LS on August 19, 2009, 04:19:11 AM
car looks great, i am envious of your wheels
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: 86XR7project on August 19, 2009, 08:59:58 AM
Quote from: xjeffs;287091
Sorry to hear about the job. Let's get together over the next couple weeks. I won't be starting the build for a bit, but it would be good to meet and chat.
Sent ya a PM
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: V8Demon on August 19, 2009, 09:33:22 AM
Quote from: gumby;287138
skip the hassle and grab FMS p/n: M-6017-463V. its a complete control pack for the 3V; MAF, intake, pedal, PCM with ford racing calibration, OBDII port, everything. designed for street rod installation of a 3V, it should simplify your swap considerably.
Ahh -- I KNEW they sold it!
$1350......Mod motor shiznit is expensive....
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on August 19, 2009, 10:03:24 AM
Quote from: gumby;287138
skip the hassle and grab FMS p/n: M-6017-463V. its a complete control pack for the 3V; MAF, intake, pedal, PCM with ford racing calibration, OBDII port, everything. designed for street rod installation of a 3V, it should simplify your swap considerably.
I had a feeling they were going to do this but hadn't checked yet. Thanks for the tip.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: Blackout on August 19, 2009, 06:30:00 PM
Hell, that would be the way to do it. All you would need to figure out would be the trans and some motor mounts!!
I WANT those black turbines....
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on August 20, 2009, 08:25:16 PM
Quote from: V8Demon;287174
Ahh -- I KNEW they sold it!
$1350......Mod motor is expensive....
Cheapest I've found the kit for is $1100
Oh and a guy at work parted out a turbo coupe and had the shifter, bezel, boot and adapter plates. Awesome, I've been looking for this for a long time. And knows where there is a TC 3.73 rear here locally. What a week.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on August 20, 2009, 08:27:35 PM
Quote from: Blackout;287216
Hell, that would be the way to do it. All you would need to figure out would be the trans and some motor mounts!!
I WANT those black turbines....
Found this helpful article. 3V into a fox. Awesome. Need to find a late SN95 crossmember.
An older couple in SF trying to sell a 04 Cobra T56 for $700.
Well, the T56 in my garage now. It did cost a couple hundred to get it home, though. I'm 99% sure it is a brand new T56. There are no wear marks anywhere on it and it still has the new "No oil" sticker on it. And (BONUS) it came with a shifter.
A guy I knew from Corner-Carvers.com helped me facilitate the deal. It turns out the couple who were selling it go to storage facilities and buy units full of junk that were claimed by the facility when people defaulted on their payments. This trans was in one of the units they bought. All they had to do was pay off the outstanding debt. I'm assuming they just made a wad of cash on the sale too. He was very happy to sell it for $700.
I called an old college buddy who owns a couple Ford dealerships in CA and he volunteered to ship it for me.
So now I need to pick up the new K member and start pulling the old engine. I may need a garage heater too.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on October 12, 2009, 03:34:12 PM
Quote from: gumby;287138
skip the hassle and grab FMS p/n: M-6017-463V. its a complete control pack for the 3V; MAF, intake, pedal, PCM with ford racing calibration, OBDII port, everything. designed for street rod installation of a 3V, it should simplify your swap considerably.
Well, I bought the inlet filter, MAF tubing and DBW pedal from a parted GT for about $120 and found that Paul's Performance in Jackson Michigan can reflash the ECM for a lot less than buying the FRPP kit, with a 93 octane performance cal. Should be less than half the price of the FRPP kit.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: DVP on October 12, 2009, 03:47:30 PM
You mean you dont have that thing in yet???? LOL
Cant wait to see it done.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: vinnietbird on October 12, 2009, 04:18:00 PM
Wow......just wow.
It sure is pretty.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: 86XR7project on October 13, 2009, 01:25:43 AM
Jeff, I really need to work some time out to get out there. This is just silly how our scheduals never seem to work out the way we want them to.
That right there is pretty awesome! Shouldn't be very hard at all to pull out the 5.0 in your car right now. I'm positive we could handle it.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: Beau on October 13, 2009, 04:02:34 AM
Wow, , that IS cool. Some weekend next spring, when it warms up, and I have the bugs ironed out of my Sport, I'll havta come up and meet y'all. A 3v Fox Cat will be unique, much less in person!
BTW, 86XR7project, you mentioned a guy with a Lambo Countach in Iowa....it wouldn't happen to be a yellow, would it?
I saw one in Kirksville in May, a few days after the tornado. Got a quick snap of it, posted it in the lounge.
Again, can't wait to see some pics of your car with the mod motor in it! :bowdown:
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: 86XR7project on October 13, 2009, 09:23:10 AM
Yeah that'd be awesome man, the three of us getting together and doing some work on making something so unique would be pretty cool.
As for that Lamborghini, if my memory serves me right I think the car was red but my memory is not so good. I actually heard the other day there is a guy about a half hour from me that has a Ferrari 512TR! Who knew Iowa had some interesting cars like that!
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: shame302 on October 13, 2009, 05:45:30 PM
Sweet project. I would recommend getting an aftermarket shifter for the T56. I run a PHP unit and love it. Also, with that trans you are going to want at least 410 gears in the car. Can't say i would have picked the 3 valve myself but it looks like its going to be sweet and i really admire the project.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on October 13, 2009, 10:09:07 PM
Shame, thanks for the recommendation. I'll look into the PHP, I hadn't heard much about that. I'd heard good things about the MGW shifter too. My original target is 3.55 or 3.73. I think the flat torque curve of the 3v and 150lbs engine weight loss may make up for the low first gear.
FTF, it would be good to get together. Hopefully we can make it work sometime.
Brett, the time is coming near. Some guy just called about buying the 5.0 and AOD, so hopefully I'll have good reason to yank it quick. I need to call on that k member in Independence, although $250 is about $150 too much.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: 86XR7project on October 14, 2009, 09:47:28 AM
You have an engine hoist? If not I have one we/you can use.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: shame302 on October 14, 2009, 04:06:24 PM
Quote
My original target is 3.55 or 3.73. I think the flat torque curve of the 3v and 150lbs engine weight loss may make up for the low first gear.
Huh, How much does the 3 valve weigh? I looked into weight briefly but its hard to get a definitive answer. 150 lbs seem like quite a difference. Any way, I originally had a T45 with 327s. Went to the T56 and left the gears. Didnt change really on the highway, but it was always great on the highway. I could manage a touch over 31 mpg on the highway. 1st was really long and 2nd were not so great. 410s leaves me with a 1st gear very similar if not the same as the T45 and 327s. I get like 8% advantage in 2nd and like 12% in 3rd. Tach 2400 at 70-75 ish in 6th. I really like the combo but i DO wish i had the viper spec 5th and 6th. The 03-04 cobra 1st is very low, lower than the auto cars even. T45 1st is like 3.35 03-04 T56 is 2.66 and the autos are like 2.82 or something.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on October 14, 2009, 10:44:27 PM
Shame, The 3v weighs around 420lbs with the 5.0L about 550lbs, from what I can find, plus lighter headers, I'm hoping. I'm guessing I'll weigh about 300lbs lighter than the 05-09 GT with a little more power/torque.
You bring up a good point with the 4.10's. My original thought was to find a FRPP T56 with the 2.97 (and a 3.73), but I ended up with a production one with the 2.66 (I just checked it). So you're right, 4.10 is about right, thanks for saying something.
Title: Engine/Trans almost ready
Post by: xjeffs on November 15, 2009, 10:04:51 PM
I have the engine completely disconnected from wiring, fuel, steering, AC, coolant hoses, exhaust, cables, etc. About all I have left is disconnect the trans stuff and YANK!!!! Just like pulling my boys teeth. Here's a shot of most everything pulled off and out. I'll need to get Brett down here for the final lift out.
After selling my T5 kit, I have been able to accumulate more parts w/o my wife giving me grief. I've picked up mod motor mounts, steering pump, and stripped a 2002 GT of all AC, power steering lines and hydroboost Master and rad/fan and condenser. Its amazing how so much sits in the same place 14 years apart. I think the AC conversion will be easier than I thought. Power steering too. Also got FRPP CAI and DBW pedal from an '05 GT.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on November 15, 2009, 10:07:36 PM
I do have a question for those of you that have done it: can you get the engine and trans out with the exhaust y-pipe attached? The passenger's side wasn't easy to get to the manifold bolts with an impact gun, so i disconnected it after the Y.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: Beau on November 15, 2009, 11:24:30 PM
I thought I'd taken mine out with the Y still on, but looking at the pics, I had it off first. Wasn't sure it would've cleared the brake lines without some damage on the pass side of the k-member...
I can't say with any certainty if it would come without interference or not...sorry man.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on November 16, 2009, 12:45:21 PM
Quote from: FordTruckFreeek;299040
I thought I'd taken mine out with the Y still on, but looking at the pics, I had it off first. Wasn't sure it would've cleared the brake lines without some damage on the pass side of the k-member...
I can't say with any certainty if it would come without interference or not...sorry man.
It looks like the Y pipe would interfere with the steering shaft, but I could move it over if I remove the air pump stuff and dryer/AC stuff.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: 86XR7project on November 16, 2009, 04:31:00 PM
The Y pipe came out with mine but it did get hung up a bit. The bolts should come off with a little WD40 and an impact.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: 1Bad88tbird on November 17, 2009, 10:09:09 AM
I just found and read this post. Great find! Looks like it's going to be a cool project as well. I read where you did a digi-guage 199mph conversion, I never knew about that, is there a thread on that? It's something I'd like to do or have done.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on November 17, 2009, 09:51:47 PM
Quote from: 1Bad88tbird;299175
I just found and read this post. Great find! Looks like it's going to be a cool project as well. I read where you did a digi-guage 199mph conversion, I never knew about that, is there a thread on that? It's something I'd like to do or have done.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: 1Bad88tbird on November 17, 2009, 10:15:25 PM
Awsome! Thank you! Is it really that easy?
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on November 18, 2009, 01:45:43 AM
Soldering a wire is, but it is quite an effort to get the whole thing disassembled to that point. If you are careful and gentle as you disassemble, it's pretty easy.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: Beau on November 18, 2009, 03:22:32 AM
When I did my W2 mod, the biggest hang-up I had was with the tiny little wire for the shift indicator. Just be patient and easy-going with it...ham-handedness is not the key to that lol
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: 1Bad88tbird on November 18, 2009, 07:57:43 AM
I just might have to try this, it would be nice to know how fast I'm going past 85. Of course it hasn't read correctly since putting the 8.8 with 3:55's in. The actual speedo gear was changed but that didn't help, I got another gear to try now, it actually replaces the gear in the tranny.
Title: 5.0L/AOD gone
Post by: xjeffs on November 21, 2009, 02:03:05 PM
Quick update. Pulled the 5.0L and AOD this morning and the guy that bought it picked it up and bought the rad too. That alone recouped over half of what I paid for it.
I'll drag it to the wash and spray the compartment out, then install the hydroboost, pedals and 03 Cobra K member.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: 86XR7project on November 21, 2009, 02:24:41 PM
I wish I hadn't missed out on that one....
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: 1Bad88tbird on November 21, 2009, 02:28:48 PM
Nice progress! It's always nice to be able to recoupe expences. I've been able to do that alot lately myself. That helps alot with being laid off.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: TurboCoupe50 on November 22, 2009, 10:40:45 AM
Quote from: xjeffs;294854
Shame, The 3v weighs around 420lbs with the 5.0L about 550lbs, from what I can find, plus lighter headers, I'm hoping.
Well I don't want to bust your bubble, but...
The old 289/302 only weigh 470lbs, and with iron intake & more meat in the block are no doubt heavier than a late 5.0 I(dunno if that includes exhaust manifolds)... If there is 50-75lb difference when all is said and done I'd be surprised... A 550lbs figure would have to include all the front accessories as well...
This is a interesting swap no doubt generating lots of interest...
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on November 23, 2009, 01:29:20 PM
Quote from: TurboCoupe50;299752
Well I don't want to bust your bubble, but...
The old 289/302 only weigh 470lbs, and with iron intake & more meat in the block are no doubt heavier than a late 5.0 I(dunno if that includes exhaust manifolds)... If there is 50-75lb difference when all is said and done I'd be surprised... A 550lbs figure would have to include all the front accessories as well...
This is a interesting swap no doubt generating lots of interest...
I do consider your opinion to be well-respected. However, switching to aluminum heads on the 5.0L alone is said to be around 50 pound savings. Then to an aluminum block, maybe 75 lbs, plastic manifolds vs. aluminum 25 lbs savings, engine driven fan to electric, 10 lbs. There's no distibutor, IAC, pushrods, lifters but you have an extra cam and phasers.
If anything I may be underestimating.
I'll weigh the car when I'm done and see.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: TurboCoupe50 on November 23, 2009, 06:17:41 PM
Yeah I'd like to know the exact difference in weight myself...
In full dress(A/C & all)and on the original springs, my Bird only sets 3/4" lower in front than when it had the pressurized 4, so a 5.0 can't be very heavy(the AOD is also defiantly heavier than the orig A4LD)... Of course I do have aluminum heads and headers, which prob saves 65-70 lbs as pointed out... Figure I've heard for the 2.3T is 380Lbs, dunno how accurate that is...
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on July 19, 2010, 10:10:57 AM
I finally have some progress to report. I didn't see much point in reporting every time I bought something or shined a bolt.
So I got the 2004 Cobra K member installed with 99 Cobra springs and 11 inch rotors and 73mm calipers. I found that the lower mount brackets for the k member were too long and had to be trimmed. I also had to elongate one of the lower bolt holes. One of the upper mounts need a 1/4" shim to sit flush. Fortunately I found something that would work at the farm and fleet. I also had to buy two thick 5/8" washers from Lowe's to make up for the fact that the 11" spindles were 1/4" thinner at the strut mount than the original spindle.
I also redid the LCA bushings and moog ball joints. This took a little time and frustration. Getting the old bushings out was a pain, as was trying to install the el cheapo brand ball joints. They kept getting pen 15eyed. I took them back, bought the moog and had them done in about 60 seconds with a ball joint tool.
I'm also about done with the brake pedal modification to use a 2002 hydroboost and MC. I'll post pics when I'm done.
I'm very close to a test fit of the 3v and T56.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on July 19, 2010, 11:00:46 AM
Here is the trim I had to do to the K member rear mounts
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: thundr306 on July 19, 2010, 09:13:00 PM
Nice...stick with it. I'd like to see it finished.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on December 27, 2011, 02:20:12 PM
OK, there's a lot to update and just so you don't think I've been screwing around for a year (even though I have), I'll update you on the piddly stuff too.
Most of the summer was spent prepping the turbo coupe rear end for installation. I changed the oil, one of the calipers, upgraded the UCA bushings to Energy Suspension and got it installed with 97 Cobra springs and MM adjustable LCA's. (https://scontent-ord.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfp1/v/t1.0-9/401490_10150458648149790_494568897_n.jpg?oh=efdc35304bb6e09468817400a636a9bc&oe=559A49D2)
But the big news is....
Title: It"s in!!!
Post by: xjeffs on December 27, 2011, 02:28:51 PM
We dropped the engine and trans in last night. It wasn't a bad drop, it did take some work and wiggling to get every thing in. Had we removed the bumper we could have gotten the lift to reach farther into the bay and may have made it easier.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on December 27, 2011, 02:42:55 PM
You can never seem to antite your issues accurately and that was the case here.
With the 3v fox drop, most people claim the stock manifolds will hit the fire wall. Mine appear as though they may won't hit the fire wall, but they maybe close to hitting the steering shaft. We'll see.
Driver's side is close, the steering shaft is in the wrong place cuz the column is sitting on the floor/seat in the car. We'll see where it ends up when connected. One exhaust stud is up against the fire wall but it looks like a straight shot around it. Very encouraged by that.
But the BIG issue... (https://scontent-ord.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xaf1/v/t1.0-9/p180x540/395624_10150458614659790_2041498326_n.jpg?oh=6919a352547f79ac7c79013ab9265b8e&oe=55A91AE9)
It looks like a custom hood or different K member...
The other thing that isn't as I antited was the ride height. I put in 99 Cobra springs up front to lower it, knowing it might be lower than antited, but counted on the weight loss in the engine to raise back up. I may set the rad, battery, coolant in the compartment to see what that does to it, but it looks way off. I do have the 97 cobra front springs, which I think are a little less stiff and progressive, so I'll try those too.
The T56 using a fox/T56 crossmember from D&D Performance was not perfect, but will work. For some reason the JEGS T56 trans mount does not fit the trans, only the crossmember.
Any comments, thoughts or suggestions you guys have are welcome.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: thunderjet302 on December 27, 2011, 03:09:41 PM
This may be a silly question but are headers a possibility to clear the steering shaft?
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on December 27, 2011, 03:25:19 PM
Quote from: thunderjet302;376337
This may be a silly question but are headers a possibility to clear the steering shaft?
There are some that go around the shaft, so yes that's a possibility. The problem is that there are no fox body headers for a 3V engine, so you have to use 2 or 4v headers with special adapters. This is why I'm hoping the stocks will work.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: thundr306 on December 27, 2011, 03:51:08 PM
At least you are still making progress.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: 86XR7project on January 03, 2012, 11:30:07 PM
I'm so mad that I didn't get to help. Gaaaaaaah! Oh well I've been at work to much anyway, stupid John Deere! Looks great Jeff!
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on January 12, 2012, 09:02:19 PM
Quote from: 86XR7project;376963
I'm so mad that I didn't get to help. Gaaaaaaah! Oh well I've been at work to much anyway, stupid John Deere! Looks great Jeff!
I'm probably going to drop it out the bottom with the K member next time, so I'll call you definitely instead of Dave (of aluminum small block fame).
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on January 12, 2012, 09:07:01 PM
I've measured the ride height and with the 99 Cobra springs it looks like the ride height is about an inch higher than stock with the hood, rad, battery, couple gallons of coolant, CAI all sitting in the bay. I'm thinking of going to the FMS B springs since they are supposed to lower the car by an inch. I've heard to avoid these because of sing but I'm thinking I might be able to get away with it because of the lower amount of weight up front.
Let me know your thoughts cuz this is my first spring experiment.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: Shadow on January 12, 2012, 09:40:29 PM
don't forget, the car will drop down some, once it's been moved around a little bit.. not an inch, but possibly close
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on January 12, 2012, 09:45:54 PM
Quote from: Shadow;377586
don't forget, the car will drop down some, once it's been moved around a little bit.. not an inch, but possibly close
Yeah I was bouncing on the front end a little trying to get it to settl. I'm going to drop it all the way to the ground to get a better measure, but I'm looking to come down almost an inche from stock, so I'm about two inches high now.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on January 13, 2012, 12:08:27 PM
I just checked the front spring rate of the 2005 Mustang GT which will be very similar in the front end as mine. It uses 136 lbs/in in the front and has 225 lbs/in on the more aggressive sets. The springs I have lined up for the swap are in the 4-500 lb/in range. I'm wondering if I have too high of a spring rate. I'm a bit of a novice on this.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: thunderjet302 on January 13, 2012, 12:15:12 PM
Is the 4.6 3V lighter than a 5.0? I know that the 99-04 Mustang front springs usually lower a 5.0 car about 1-1.5 inches.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: Chuck W on January 13, 2012, 01:29:33 PM
Quote from: xjeffs;377621
I just checked the front spring rate of the 2005 Mustang GT which will be very similar in the front end as mine. It uses 136 lbs/in in the front and has 225 lbs/in on the more aggressive sets. The springs I have lined up for the swap are in the 4-500 lb/in range. I'm wondering if I have too high of a spring rate. I'm a bit of a novice on this.
The '05+ Mustangs use a coil-over-type front suspension, and thus needs "less" spring, due to the increased mechanical advantage. Like when you convert a 79-04 Mustang to coil-overs, you need much less spring rate to get the same wheel rate with a spring in the stock location.
For what it's worth, front springs of 400-500# on a Fox are pretty soft, and pretty much stock. I've used springs anywhere from 650-800# on the front of my cars.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on January 13, 2012, 02:21:54 PM
Thanks for the explanation Chuck. I would assume this would be important if you are lowering it to help fight bottoming out.
And yes the 4.6L 3v is around 100-150 LBS lighter.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: V8Demon on January 14, 2012, 02:12:26 PM
Quote from: Chuck W;377639
The '05+ Mustangs use a coil-over-type front suspension, and thus needs "less" spring, due to the increased mechanical advantage. Like when you convert a 79-04 Mustang to coil-overs, you need much less spring rate to get the same wheel rate with a spring in the stock location.
For what it's worth, front springs of 400-500# on a Fox are pretty soft, and pretty much stock. I've used springs anywhere from 650-800# on the front of my cars.
What Chuck said. Stock fox rates up front are in the low 400 range.....415-425.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on February 05, 2012, 10:59:47 PM
So I finally dropped the car on the ground to see what the real ride height was. This is using the 97 Cobra springs in the rear and 99 Cobra springs in the front. I guess you really can't tell what your going to get until you do it because it doesn't look half bad. I have the adjustable LCA's almost to max in the rear and it still seems a little low. Ground to fender is about one inch lower in the rear, but if I measure at a horizontal body seam front to rear its only about half an inch higher in the front. This might even be taken up when i add the hood, rad, brake and hydroboost stuff and liquids. So I might have guessed right on this set up.
Overall, the front might be an inch and a half lower than stock when all is said and done. Take a look.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: thundr306 on February 06, 2012, 08:14:26 PM
You could help it some by putting a taller tire in the back....
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: JeremyB on March 05, 2013, 10:04:18 PM
Quote from: xjeffs;376331
We dropped the engine and trans in last night. It wasn't a bad drop, it did take some work and wiggling to get every thing in. Had we removed the bumper we could have gotten the lift to reach farther into the bay and may have made it easier.
You can never seem to antite your issues accurately and that was the case here.
With the 3v fox drop, most people claim the stock manifolds will hit the fire wall. Mine appear as though they may won't hit the fire wall, but they maybe close to hitting the steering shaft. We'll see.
Driver's side is close, the steering shaft is in the wrong place cuz the column is sitting on the floor/seat in the car. We'll see where it ends up when connected. One exhaust stud is up against the fire wall but it looks like a straight shot around it. Very encouraged by that.
But the BIG issue... (http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/395624_10150458614659790_787104789_8696055_2041498326_n.jpg)
It looks like a custom hood or different K member...
The other thing that isn't as I antited was the ride height. I put in 99 Cobra springs up front to lower it, knowing it might be lower than antited, but counted on the weight loss in the engine to raise back up. I may set the rad, battery, coolant in the compartment to see what that does to it, but it looks way off. I do have the 97 cobra front springs, which I think are a little less stiff and progressive, so I'll try those too.
The T56 using a fox/T56 crossmember from D&D Performance was not perfect, but will work. For some reason the JEGS T56 trans mount does not fit the trans, only the crossmember.
Any comments, thoughts or suggestions you guys have are welcome.
All your pics are dead! :mad: Need moar pics.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on March 05, 2013, 10:59:54 PM
Quote from: JeremyB;410591
All your pics are dead! :mad: Need moar pics.
I was loading the pictures here from the facebook server and they moved the location. Fortunately the last half of the address stayed the same so it wasn't too hard to re-link it. Wow, it's been a year. I need to get some work done.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on December 21, 2013, 06:46:41 PM
Minor update: I got the Hydroboost from a 2002 GT fitted in the car, and because the mod motor is so much wider, the master cylinder is angled up and the MC rod doesn't line up with the peg on the brake pedal. So I had to take the automatic pedal, grind the weld off and knock the peg out, slice off the peg on my manual pedal that is going in the car, relocate and drill the hole and reweld the peg into the pedal. Here are some pics.
[ATTACH=CONFIG]33355[/ATTACH]
[ATTACH=CONFIG]33356[/ATTACH]
Then I had to trim the mounting plate on the MC and open up the firewall holes and finally got the brake pedal, steering column and master cylinder mounted. are some pics.
[ATTACH=CONFIG]33357[/ATTACH]
Title: Five Lug conversion
Post by: xjeffs on December 21, 2013, 06:54:15 PM
I also sold the parts car minus the interior and a few Cougar accessories to a guy in town that's also on the forum (see Engine tech). He's dropping the 5.0L into his Turbo Coupe. I also sold him my four lug Cobras and it got me looking into other wheels and I stumbled across some new ones. I've always wanted to keep the stock look. If I could find something that resembled the black turbines that allowed me to go five lug and a 17 or 18" rim I would do it, but I haven't found anything until NOW!! I'm pretty convinced I'll be doing a five lug swap and buying these.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: MeanLX on April 14, 2014, 05:27:18 PM
Did you ever finish this project?
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: 83-88T-Bird Guy on April 07, 2015, 08:36:29 AM
I also would like to hear what happened to this project. Alot of the pics are missing from the last 2 pages. We love pics :D
I am starting my 4.6 3V into a 87-88 TC soon.
Title: '88 Cougar XR7 4.6L 3V - update 12/27/2011; Engine, trans and TC rear end in
Post by: xjeffs on April 07, 2015, 11:19:58 PM
I piddle with it here and there. I've only got it back in the air and changed the springs this year. The Mark VIII was taking too much of my time, so I sold it last week. Hopefully only one car to work on now.