This post is for the folks that may be in the process of or have thought of doing a 96-01 Explorer 5.0L and 4R70W swap.
When I first mounted the Explorer 5.0 engine by itself on the frame I thought I would have to notch the front crossmember because it hit the idler pulley. It was a panic moment until I realized I don't even have the transmission mounted yet. So after freaking out - I patiently waited for my new Tom's crossmember. I mated the transmission to the engine, secured it to the crossmember and whatdoyaknow....it fits fine. I'm at a 4.6 degree slope down to the rear measuring from the lower intake face which seems to be what the rule of thumb is (approx 5 degrees).
So unless you are using an Explorer front dress on a different engine block or have a strange driveline angle - you shouldn't need to modify the front crossmember.
Notice the dotted line where I thought I would have to notch. Thankfully one less thing to worry about!
BTW - I am using Duff's / Lick Creek HD motor mounts that DO NOT raise the engine from stock (supposedly).
When I first mounted the Explorer 5.0 engine by itself on the frame I thought I would have to notch the front crossmember because it hit the idler pulley. It was a panic moment until I realized I don't even have the transmission mounted yet. So after freaking out - I patiently waited for my new Tom's crossmember. I mated the transmission to the engine, secured it to the crossmember and whatdoyaknow....it fits fine. I'm at a 4.6 degree slope down to the rear measuring from the lower intake face which seems to be what the rule of thumb is (approx 5 degrees).
So unless you are using an Explorer front dress on a different engine block or have a strange driveline angle - you shouldn't need to modify the front crossmember.
Notice the dotted line where I thought I would have to notch. Thankfully one less thing to worry about!
BTW - I am using Duff's / Lick Creek HD motor mounts that DO NOT raise the engine from stock (supposedly).
