5.0 to 5.8
 

Hello, I'm new to this forum, [at least I just finally made an account], anyway I drive a 1990 F150 single cab long bed 4x4 xlt Lariat 5.0 with 4 on the floor. I've had my truck about a year now and I must say im not overly impressed with my 302. It runs great and hasn't ever given me problems. It seems gutless and leaks oil. I tow quite a bit and I run this motor hard. I've been considering pulling it and freshening it up and maybe putting a mild cam and heads on it. The thought crossed my mind about just going to the 351 instead. If I find a 1990 351 how hard would it be to swap it? I know it would bolt right up the the mounts and tranny, but what about wiring? would everything plug in or would I have to use a different computer too? I am a high school student so cheaper is better. Any further information would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

I think in 1990 the 351 and 302 had different firing orders - so that would be something you would need to address computer/wiring wise. I'm pretty sure that you can use a 302 computer with a 351 engine - the computer will learn. You have a manual transmission so that should make things easier.

I'm gonna let a lot more folks with more knowledge than me chime in.

Nice truck!

It'll work but it'll get a lot more expensive than just buying a good motor and swapping it in.
A couple handy teenagers could swap in a different 302 in a weekend, the 351 is gonna get a little more involved.

Cool trailer!

So what will I need parts wise to get the electronics going?
Thanks

I just want more torque, and Im gonna pull my motor anyway to fix an oil leak so i figured id just go bigger

Thank you!

I'm getting ready to do this swap on my 89. Year model of the 351 will make a huge difference in making it plug and play. Im using a 94 bronco engine . Im having to use a distributor from a different engine because the plug in is not the same and 302/351 does not interchange. Use the wiring harness off the 302. Firing order is different between the 2 engines but that doesn't matter to the computer. You will need the y pipe from the 351 because it is wider. My advice is if you're serious about doing it, find a donor truck and take everything u can from the engine compartment. There are a few other smaller things I can think of such as hose hookups,etc. Fortunately in my case I have the whole bronco to pick parts from .

That doesnt sound to difficult, so im going to need the 351 distributor as well?
I am planning on pulling a junkyard motor and doing the swap over spring break. Wish I had a donor truck...