Need help on used 2000 GT I'm looking to buy. What has been done to the engine?

[DrCanoe]

Hello everyone. I'm looking to get my first Mustang. I found a used 2000 GT about an hour's drive away that looks good, but the picture of the engine doesn't seem to match the stock engines I found online (for example, the alternator has been moved to the right). I'm not terribly knowledge on engine mechanics (yet), so am looking for your help.

I have 2 questions:

1. Can you tell from the picture what modifications have been done?
2. Would you be concerned about buying this vehicle and why?

Any help is truly appreciated.

Thanks,

Mark

 

[wmburns]

Well.........That's certainly not the motor that comes stock in a 2000 model year Mustang GT.

That motor looks like an over head valve (OHV) 5.0 that would have been inside a 1995 or older Mustang.

The 1999-2000 model year Mustang GT should have come with a 4.6 SOHC Windsor iron block.

Are you positive that the body model year is 2000 GT?

While there are many people that might disagree, my concerns:

• on going maintenance as this car is at best, non standard
• compliance with local emission laws. If where you live has an ODB2 emission compliance laws, this car would never pass.
• Resale value. While it's true that some people might consider the car worth MORE with the swapped motor. Regardless, the population of people that would be interested in such a motor swap project is more limited than a pure stock example.

 

[DrCanoe]

Yes. If you saw the exterior shots, there's no doubt. Thanks very much for your help. A quick internet search of the engine you mentioned shows me your exactly right. Thanks again.