03/04 cobra motor swap

DJT03GT · Apr 8, 2004

2 questions, sorry for my ignorance on motor swaps. First how hard is it to swap an 03 cobra motor into a GT? Second for the price of a 12000 crate engine, couldnt you build a 4V big bore 304 using 03 lower intake and 03 heads? They make aftermarket cams, comp cams and you could top it with a kenne bell. I could be off on my guesses, but feel free to correct/help me out, fill in the blanks:
5.0 Big Bore -5000
4V comp Cams -1000
2.2L Kenne Bell -3800
4V heads -
03 lower intake -
plus the cost of conversion and installation, but i dont think the actuall longblock wouldnt cost too much more then a crate 03 engine making 390 HP. The one above could make an easy 600. I know there would be a lot of other upgrades like fuel system and rear, but I would need that with a crate motor to. I already have a solid axle rear in the GT and its lighter then a Cobra to start. I could be way off, but thanks for any replys.

new22003 · Apr 8, 2004

Firstly you might check ebay or stanparts.com for a 2003 cobra engine they have been going for around $7000 sometimes.

Secondly yes you could build an earlier cobra engine forge the internals, and throw a kenne bell on it and have great results. There are several people running 600+ horse on these.

As far as the swap goes you can check out this site here. Its for the pre 2003 cobra swap but most should apply to the 2003
http://www.cobrapoweredgt.com/index2.html

billyfe390 · Apr 8, 2004

The entire fuel system, cooling system, computer system and transmission will need to be replaced.

DJT03GT · Apr 8, 2004

Thanks new22, billyfe that applies to both engines tho correct, built by a shop or crate. I want to keep my GT and work it and possibly by an 06 for a daily driver in the future, but i gotta have a toy.

GinoGT · Apr 8, 2004

Definately a better fuel system, but that goes for anyone putting boost into their Mustang.

I think the 03 Cobra does have a different radiator, but there's plenty of guys making power on the stock one. But you're talking 600+RWHP kinds of power, so that would be another thing to look into.

The transmission should bolt right up. But again, with that kind of power, I wouldn't be in any rush to pump it through a T45 or T3650.

And yes, you can build one hell of an engine for the $9000-$12,000 people want for a new 03/04 Cobra crate.

billyfe390 · Apr 8, 2004

DJT03GT said:
Thanks new22, billyfe that applies to both engines tho correct, built by a shop or crate. I want to keep my GT and work it and possibly by an 06 for a daily driver in the future, but i gotta have a toy.

Yes. Granted there are those that have cobras and the stock radiator which may or may not be good but with the power you expect to run making an error on the side of safety would be my choice. The fuel system will definately need some upgrades at least a 03-04 cobra system with a different pump. Your current transmission will last as long as you never get on it and if you do it will grenade. As far as electronics using and tuning a cobra computer I would "assume" will work but check into it.

Keep in mind that the standard GT is probably designed for 300 or so HP when you double that you need to do some serious suspension work and also upgrade the differential.

Yes you can build a monster of a motor for that price but when you get into the cost of upgrading everything else and getting it tuned you can easily double that figure.

GinoGT · Apr 8, 2004

billyfe390 said:
Keep in mind that the standard GT is probably designed for 300 or so HP when you double that you need to do some serious suspension work and also upgrade the differential.

Yes you can build a monster of a motor for that price but when you get into the cost of upgrading everything else and getting it tuned you can easily double that figure.

Very true. Any increase in your HP figures should be met with an equal increase of handling it. Like billyfe390 said, suspension to get that power to the ground, and a built rear end if you're looking at drag racing or sticky tires.

AcE XBOX · Apr 8, 2004

The Ford dealership is selling a 600hp engine for 7k.

DJT03GT · Apr 8, 2004

Thanks for all the info guys, AcE which are you referring to? I currently luv the car i have and would supercharge it, but thats eventually gonna lead to a new short block so im thinkin why not go all out. I may just end up with a left over cobra, not sure yet.

CBASS · Apr 16, 2004

billyfe390 said:
Your current transmission will last as long as you never get on it and if you do it will grenade.

I assume you have proof of this?? I'm sure all the Vortech and KB guys gernaded their transmissions? They're making just as much if not more than a stock 03 Cobra.

billyfe390 · Apr 16, 2004

CBASS said:
I assume you have proof of this?? I'm sure all the Vortech and KB guys gernaded their transmissions? They're making just as much if not more than a stock 03 Cobra.

Actually yes 2 vortec cars at 500rwhp and 1 nitrous car all three shattered input shafts and/or main shafts. In contrast I should have reworded it a little different but if you are running a car with that much HP and a stock trans you ARE on borrowed time period. If all you do is get on it a little on the street then you can make them last but go to the track and hook up under full boost then tell me what happens.

CBASS · Apr 17, 2004

My point is, most people don't see 500+ rwhp. Most Vortech, KBs, and 03 Cobra swaps are around the 400rwhp mark or less. I haven't heard of anyone blowing their transmission up.
Besides, if you're going to put 500+rwhp through the stock 5 speed, your stupid.

03/04 cobra motor swap

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