Hey, I am new to this whole mechanical stuff and am just getting into starting my research. Does anybody have diagrams of 5.0L engines, or maps that could explain what everything is and where it goes?
I would get a shop manual ( haynes, etc) rather than diagrams and whatever. Also, the only way you are going to understand anything is to pick up a tool set, get a book, and get your hands dirty LOL. Good luck dude
Ideally, in addition to a manual (or better yet, an official Ford $hop manual), you're going to need hands-on experience like blk92stangg said. Maybe you could find a really cheap or even free 302 to take apart and get familiar with. I did that twice along with tearing apart countless lawnmower engines and playing with model R/C engines before I built my first 302(sig).
I cant remember the name exactly, I think its How to Rebuild Smallblock Fords or something similar is a pretty comprehensive book on just Ford 260/289/302s. Its fairly old so it doesnt cover any roller cam engines, though.
A really good book to get is The Official Ford Mustang 5.0 Technical Reference & Performance Handbook 1979 through 1993. Barnes and Noble carries them if you have one near your house for $29.95 It explains the function and modifications on just about every piece of the car and also has a drawing of the motor with everything on it labeled. I will scan the drawing and post it on my website later this weekend if you want to check it out.
I know when I open the hood I am just going to stare at it going "What the fu...." but I think a basic understanding will definately give me an advantage rather than going in blind. Thanks for all the suggestions guys.
That would be awesome Daren, but where exactly is the website? =P
Thanks TheUser, my friend suggested that to me yesterday and I have bookmarked on my linkbar next to Stangnet.
Is it possible to do a rebuild, or atleast an above average tune-up, with lesser mechanical experience? I figure this will be the only way to understand my vehicle, but on the hand, I do not want to waste 2-3gs after I 'Kiss Me''Kiss Me''Kiss Me''Kiss Me' it up haha. I guess only time will tell.