FE3 Engine Swap!

Newbie from Corsicana, TX. I recently purchased an 89' B2000 project truck and would like to know what stock engine and transmission swap application will be a direct replacement for the stock/dead engine intact, any help would be greatly appreciated. Ive read some of the posts in reference to FE3. What vehicle make and model does this setup come from and, what is involved in the engine swap with minimal modifications provided I can find this motor and trans? Sounds like a great way to go then; add boost later!! Thanks in advance.

OK. I found the information that I was looking for to make this swap happen. Thanks (SilentDawn) for your 07/04/2012 post, It was very detailed and gratly appreciated. As soon as I find a donor vehicle and motor, I'm going to get started on this project and have fun with the little B!

You will not be dissapointed.

I'm decently mechanical sound however, this is my first import build and will ask many questions here in this group page. I have mostly built performance sbf engines and decided it was time for a new adventure. Thanks in advance for any future assistance, comments and suggestions during my build.

Ok members, which swap will be less painful and less modifications? FE3 OR THE SBC 355. I currently have a sbc 355 that was built by Shipps in Dallas, Tx., this is my first import project and I'm not in a big rush on the build. How much trouble is it to swap the sbc in -vs- FE3 parts and fabrication wise? 1). I don't have the FE3 motor as of yet. 2). I do have a ready sbc 355, computer, harness and throttle body setup. 3). I've viewed several videos on YouTube about both swaps and just undecided and would like to be aware of the pros and cons of both. They both are interesting 4). I'm just looking for a "not too complicated" build to keep me occupied in my spare time and, later have some fun with the completed build. Waiting on members to chime in on this one! Thanks in advance!

I did the SBC swap, but not the FE3.
SBC fits really nice, but you have to move the radiator forward and tuck it under the core support. You need to make new motor and transmission mounts. Run all new exhaust and custom drive shaft. Then you'll find that the rear end gears aren't well suited for sustained high-speeds, and peg-legged burnouts toast the spider gears.

FE3 drops onto existing motor mounts. Bolts right up to existing transmission. It likes high freeway rpms that the rest of the drive train is setup for. Stock radiator can be used without relocation.

Thanks for your response SinCityLocal. I guess I'd better sell this sbc 355 and hunt me down an FE3.

OK group, I was mistaken about the year, make and model of my new project! My buddy sold me the truck blind and it has been tough catching him at his shop on my off days. So, I went to my buddies shop this morning and surprisingly he was there. I got a good gander at the truck I'm going to build. It's a 1991 B2200 5-speed instead of the 89 B2000 that I initially posted. I will be moving it to my shop this weekend to end the timing issues of availability to the truck and getting my project on the way. Now, the question is? what changed with i.e. (B2000 vs B2200 frame, motor mount issues, transmission issues, FE3 swap, Ford Ranger motor 2.3 etc.) between the 89-91 that I need to be aware of with this project. I'm looking to get this project off the ground soon. I "MAY" even consider selling my 88' Mustang coupe race car to get the "BScene" project under way financially! Thanks in advance!

Should be the same, the Ford Ranger is a totally different platform, the Mazda B Series didn't start sharing parts with the Ford Ranger until 1994 in the States.

So, it's still safe to plan for the FE3 swap and boost later? Makes me a happy camper. Thanks Baha! I'll keep you posted when I get started and the rest of the build.