Using a 3.7L V-6 for a donor

[R Thomas]

I have come across a wrecked 2011 V-6 Mustang 6-spd. I'm well aquianted with these as I drive one as my regular ride. Since I've seen a lot of talk about builds using the new V-8 was wondering if anyone else was looking at this route. It puts out about the same power as a mild 302 build. Seems like most of the donor needed stuff is there, just a few questions about front spindles, transmission length, axle width, exhaust routing, gas tank, and how picky the computer will be. I'm on a fairly tight budget thinking this could put me on the road under 30K.

[bansheekev]

The issue will be the ECU/Computer. The OEM Mustang computer has security features built into it to work with a chipped ignition key. It is impossible to get around this. This is why people who are getting dropout Coyotes from Mustang GT's or F150's are buying the Coyote Controls Pack from Ford Racing which is the stripped down computer / wiring harness designed just to run the engine without any Mustang features. Not sure if Ford Racing offers an equivalent controls pack for the motor you are looking at - they are getting ready to release one for the V6 twin turbo ecoboost motor but that is different as well. May be worth a call to the Ford Racing tech line to see what your options are.

Kevin

[R Thomas]

Thanks for the feedback will do. Took a look at your Mark 4 build incredible one of the cleanest installations I've ever seen would get my vote at any car show.

[Jeff Kleiner]

Beyond that the 2011 rearend, spindles, brakes and rack are not compatible.

If you shop wisely you can get on the road using a 2000-2004 4.6 donor for <$30K

Jeff

[R Thomas]

Thanks Jeff looks like the donor idea with the 2011 would need a ton of changes. I would still like to see a 3.7 in one of these has I'm delighted with the power in my Convertible. Project is just in the planning so who knows what will happen. I really am grateful for you experienced guys taking time to provide info.

[bansheekev]

Now a complete kit with one of these or a twin turbo ecoboost v6 would be interesting. There hasn't been one in a MKIV yet...

Kevin

[Ray W.]

I would be more interested in the 4 cylinder they're putting in the 15 Mustangs. Ford Racing makes a special computer harnesses for the 2.0 ecoboost crate engines, so I wouldn't doubt that a 2.3 ecoboost with 300 hp is coming down the pipe. Unfortunately, the 8000.00 price tag on the 2.0 means the 2.3 will likely be more. Another downside would be the light engines in the front of these already rear-heavy cars. The 2.0 ecoboost only weighs about 213 lbs. Maybe the balance could be worked out by placing the engine more to the front. What would the car weigh, about 1800 lbs?