12-09 Engine!

Time to put the engine in!

I need to get the engine in place to make sure I know the placement of where everything is going to run. I called over 3 friends and it took all of us to get this done. I'm really appreciative of the help Brian, Ben and Dave.

Remember, I used a 4.6L/5-spd from an '07 Mustang GT. The '05+ 5 spd (Tremec 3650) has a different transmission mount, shifter location and clutch configuration than prior years. This is going to cause some challenges but Kerby Shure (EEPod) has performed a similar install and has been instrument in walking me through some areas where I've gotten stuck.

Things I learned:

- The supplied energy suspension motor mounts interfere with the dipstick tube. Kerby recommended cutting the factor tub and replacing a section with flexible line. I haven't done this yet but will.

- The supplied energy suspension transmission mount is intended for the older style 3650 with a wide (2 bolt) mount location in the rear. I'm either going to need to modify the mount to work or modify the cross member to use the factor mount. The factor mount looks much softer and so isnt' likely ideal.

- I was hoping the factor exhaust manifolds would work to get me started. However, they don't fit!! I'm disappointed that I'll need to spend more money but happy that the end result should give better performance.

- The factor A/C compressor fit into the chassis just fine, I left it intact.

- As per recommendations on the FFCars forum I shaved the bolts on the back of the head. The hard heater lines didn't hit but one of the wiring plugs was in a bad place. I was able to remove it's stationary mount and that freed up the engine to make it the last couple of inches.

I haven't test fit the intake manifold on, this will be next to see what the fitment will be like. I presume (hope) it'll be fine.