It’s gotten easier to drop a modern Coyote engine fitted to a Classic 1965-73 Mustang. The 5.0L dual overhead cam (DOHC) Coyote modular V-8 has evolved over the years. Improved cylinder head design, camshafts, and trick electronic valve timing control each cam controlled with independence Can deliver up to 480 HP without a supercharger, also with usable torque down low. Making it fun to drive the vintage Ford Mustang.
FITMENT GUIDELINES Early Mustang
The Coyote is a wide engine to fit into the engine bay. It’s a squeeze but does fit between the frame rails. Some modifications may include;
- Removing the Shock Towers. There are a number of companies that offer kits. Rod n Customs, TCI, Heidts etc.
- The coyote motor mounts provided are a direct fit into the factory V8 motor towers of the Mustang engine bay.
- Majority of these Mustang Swaps will need to alter or replace the Cross Member and Cross Member.
- Oil pan Swap. The Gen 3 and 4 Oil pan does not work for most factory engine bays
- Transmissions. The 10 Speed Automatic or 6 speed works well. Otherwise the 5 speed TKX.. The 10 speed is slightly wider fit, it to search more through the gears a lot more. The 6 speed has low first gear but 2 overdrive gears.
- There are new front suspension systems which remove the shock towers completely, or strut-based front suspensions. It requires the very top of the shock tower to keep, but the rest can be trimmed back for engine clearance. TCI, MTF, Detroit Speed.
- Oil Filter Fitment Early 65-73 Mustangs use the existing oil filter housing with the cooler deleted often works. Keeping in mind there are many variations of frames, engine mount heights etc.. so each one seems to be different, but some will need a oil filter relocation kit which moves the filter to a remote location.
- Going with a pullout Junkyard Coyote may initially save $$ but drawbacks include cleaning up and deleting the OE wires harness and control pack not used. Reconfiguring the pulleys for fitment. Timing cover and Oil pan needs replacement Then of course a High mileage engine can pose their own risks.
- Upgrade fuel tank / fuel line kit Typically 340 GPH is suggested.
- Serpentine Pulley Kits Coyote Swap. Best fitment typically moves the alternator to the passenger side. AC lower drivers side and P/S Lower passenger side.