I need alot of advice. 1988 gt 5.0 build up

[Xandor]

I've been focused on anyrhing but cars for over a decade but I'm back in a ranger and need help. I fully plan on going crazy with the search engine in here but if anyone is feeling generous (or willing to male a phone call) I need a ton of advice.

I bought this 1988 Ranger GT with a stock 5.0 auto out of a 91 tbird. I went to get an exhaust on it the day I bought it and was informed that wasn't really possible. It was set in the truck with headers on it and the bolts to take it off are setting on the frame and in one place the headers are rubbing the frame. I said screw it I'll pull it in a few weeks and have a local shop ready to build it up. I figure a cam intake heads swap should be good.

Lordy where to start. There no kit for it all. My main thing that has instantly stopped me in my tracks is headers that will fit what I pick. I'd be happy with 350hp or really anywhere over 300. I just dont want a chugga chugga cam.

While the engine is pulled I want to redo the interior all brand new yet stock looking. Any suspension musts? It currently has 410 gears. I figure I'm 8-10k deep here already but im feeling stupid... its my dream truck.
Im honestly okay with the spray paint job it has. Paint is the absolute last thing I'll do.

Need a custom center console i guess. Thats the bottom of a trash can lmao.

I'm not sure what thw seats are out of. They have a power lumbar... power windows and locks. If anyone has anything to sell for all this I'm buying... big need right now is front window trim

 

[bobbywalter]

you need a new exhaust guy.


looks like a plate type swap with v6 mounts based on pan to k member orientation and right side picture from underneath.

this is not always ideal...

where is it rubbing? doues it have a sn95 or the t bird header on it? or do you not know what headers are on it? if it is what i suspect i would roll the rails a bit and it should get it clear.

were you thinking tri y headers after the refresh? or?