1. Rethink Your Life Choices (Seriously): This swap is incredibly challenging and expensive. Unless you have extensive fabrication, welding, and engine-swapping experience, plus a substantial budget and access to specialized tools, this project will likely end in frustration and a partially disassembled car. Consider a more realistic swap, like a smaller V6, before tackling something this ambitious.
2. Realistic Assessment of Resources:
* Budget: Expect to spend tens of thousands of dollars, easily. This includes the engine (and potentially transmission), custom mounts, fabrication work, wiring harness modifications, custom driveshaft, suspension upgrades (to handle the extra weight), cooling system upgrades, and potentially bodywork.
* Time: This is a project that could take months, or even years, depending on your experience and availability.
* Space: You'll need a well-equipped workshop with a lift, welding equipment, and access to a machine shop for custom parts.
* Skills: Advanced mechanical skills are absolutely essential. You'll need to be proficient in welding, fabrication, electrical work, and engine mechanics.
3. Key Challenges:
* Engine Bay Space: The Probe's engine bay is tiny compared to the 5.0L V8. You'll need extensive modifications, including potentially cutting and welding the firewall and inner fenders.
* Transmission: You'll need a transmission that can handle the torque of the V8, and likely a custom driveshaft to connect it to the rear differential. Finding a suitable combination that fits within the Probe's chassis will be a huge challenge.
* Wiring Harness: The V8's wiring harness won't be compatible with the Probe's system, requiring extensive rewiring and potentially a standalone engine management system.
* Cooling System: The Probe's cooling system won't be sufficient for the V8. You'll need a larger radiator, electric fans, and possibly other modifications to ensure adequate cooling.
* Suspension and Brakes: The added weight of the V8 will severely stress the Probe's suspension and brakes. Significant upgrades will be needed to prevent handling issues and ensure safe braking.
4. If You're Determined (Proceed with Extreme Caution):
* Research: Thoroughly research existing 5.0L V8 Probe swaps. There are forums and online communities dedicated to this kind of project, and you can learn from the successes (and failures) of others. Look for detailed build threads.
* Professional Help: Consider hiring experienced fabricators and mechanics to assist with the more complex aspects of the swap. This can save you time, frustration, and potentially money in the long run (even though it'll still be expensive).
* Safety First: Always prioritize safety. Work in a well-ventilated area, use proper safety equipment, and double-check your work.
In short: This is a project of immense difficulty. Unless you're a highly skilled and experienced mechanic with the resources and time to dedicate to it, it's probably best to choose a different project. The potential rewards are high, but the risks are even higher.
