Noobie with questions on 3.8 CFI September 14, 2008, 03:49:58 PM I have been reading alot from the search function but the more I read the more I realize that I need some basic knowledge.Engine 1986 3.8L CFIQuestions: (1) What heads are commonly used on this engine to upgrade from stock. From what vehicle of what year? (2) Is there a source for carb'd intakes for this engine that does not cost $500.oo?(3) Where can I get headers for the 86 3.8?Please run me through the basics of making the 86 3.8L CFI a better performing engine.Everyone tells me to just put a 5.0 in and forget about it. I however, would rather keep it a 3.8 if I can get some reasonable power at a cost that is significantly less that a 5.0 swap.Thank you in advance and sorry for the noob questions. Quote Selected
Noobie with questions on 3.8 CFI Reply #1 – September 14, 2008, 04:32:32 PM 1- none that i know of (this does not make them exempt from larger valves though2-thats your call, a carb should bolt right on,, however,, how are you going to drive the fule since your mechanical FP location is sealed , however your cam is likely provisioned for the application.Cutting out the seal,,perhaps but ive not seen it done yet.3-I dono,, perhaps the 88 3.8 exhaust headers are better and will work.click on my diy link below for more info on your engine.,, that should keep you busy till next year.There is more power to be had,, including a 4.2L crank/piston/rod swap.there are several simple mods you can do that give you an instant return on power, and you can feel it as well. Quote Selected
Noobie with questions on 3.8 CFI Reply #2 – September 14, 2008, 07:58:08 PM The early 3.8 has virtually no speed parts available(esp the CFI)... I suppose some of the newer Stang parts could swapped, but you'd be far better swapping in a late engine if you want more go... BTW This is going to require quite a bit of wiring mods, harness for the donor engine, as well as computer etc... Quote Selected
Noobie with questions on 3.8 CFI Reply #3 – September 14, 2008, 08:05:19 PM I just had a 3.8 redone. Based on all the head problems with the 3.8, I'd do a swap if that is a $$$$$$$$ option. Quote Selected
Noobie with questions on 3.8 CFI Reply #4 – September 15, 2008, 08:53:03 PM there was a company that made headers for the mustang CFI 3.8 but if I remember correctly they don't fit our cars because of the linkage for the collum shifter. course, you could swap it out I suppose. Quote Selected
Topic: Noobie with questions on 3.8 CFI (Read 737 times)
previous topic - next topic
