Questions about building a 5.0L Thunderbird

oihannah · 11-23-2007

I have a 1988 Thunderbird, and im looking to put around 350 hp to the ground. I want to change out my cam and heads but I hear that the firing order is different from a mustang to the thunderbird. What would be the best way to build this kind of hp without changing timeing? Or if I do, what all will I have to change out? (im assuming crank and cam)

**EagleAutosports** · 11-23-2007

Actually the 1988 Thunderbird had the same firing order as the Mustang so it's all systems go for making power. The usual Mustang mods work, if you have any questions about what mods, just ask.

1988 Ford Firing Orders

Kyle F · 11-23-2007

Yup, Engine mods are the same. Though, the exhaust will be different. Make sure when you get headers that they know you are putting them in a T-bird. Some things may have to bend diffrent. Might not, I am not 100% sure here.

Also, you might want to look into changing out the rear end. Didn;t the T-birds have the 7.5" rear. ossibly they had the 8.8", but something makes me think there is possibly a 7.5" lurking back there

oihannah · 11-23-2007

Talking mods, I'm fairly decided, but looking for some additional imput on good power combos at a cheap price.

**EagleAutosports** · 11-24-2007

You can find good heads like the Ford Racing X303/X305, Roush/World Products Windsor Jr Lite, Holley Systemax at less than $850-$900. Then the E303 cam is around $140, new springs for it could be around $40.

oihannah · 11-27-2007

well im looking to bump this bird into the 350hp range, I'm thinking a trick flow top end kit, which has assembled heads, cam, intake and all the bells and whistles to go with em'. I guess my real question is what would be the most cost effective way to hit 350 horse power. My second question is will same year aftermarket mustang bodyparts fit on this bird? I've done some eyeball comparison, and it all looks the same, i mean the cars even look the same just sitting side by side. Just wondering what, if anything will fit on this bird.

dollarbill · 11-27-2007

The Trickflow kits are the most complete you can get for the money. Holley Systemax, Edelbrock, Ford Racing, Trickflow all make kits and should get you pretty close to your goal. Another thing you may want to consider is a rear end gear ungrade to at least 3.73s. I think the non s/c bird only came with 3.27s at best. Also I'm not sure about is hood clearance on the bird. You may want to check on T-bird specific forums for more info from people that have done this.