The 5.0 HO (Fox-body 302) is the most cost-effective power upgrade for a carbureted build. Bolt in an Edelbrock intake, add headers and a 600 cfm carb, and you're making 240–260 hp for well under $3,000 total.
The Fox-body 5.0L HO (High Output) was produced from 1982–1995 in the Mustang. It features:
**Carbureted build (recommended for a cleaner build):**
Drop the HO long block onto the existing Bronco mounts if you're already running a 302. Add:
Result: 240–260 hp and 310+ lb-ft with a street tune. Idle quality is excellent on the Performer intake.
**EFI retention option:** If the donor is a 1987–1993 Mustang, retaining the mass-air EFI system is possible. Requires keeping the donor's ECU, harness, MAF sensor, and injectors. The EFI wiring harness cleanup (cutting out A/C, emissions) takes 4–6 hours and is the most detail-intensive part of the swap. The payoff is better cold starts, better fuel economy, and more manageable altitude compensation.
**Motor mounts:** If swapping from an I6, you'll need V8 motor mounts. If swapping from an existing 302, the mounts are unchanged.
| Part | Vendor | Est. price |
|---|---|---|
| Ford 5.0L HO long block (Fox-body donor) | Salvage/Core | ~$600 |
| Edelbrock Performer 302 intake + 600 cfm carb | Edelbrock | ~$620 |
| Hooker shorty headers for 302 in early Bronco | Hooker | ~$280 |
| MSD 6AL ignition box | MSD | ~$210 |
| Bronco motor mounts (if swapping from I6) | Various | ~$120 |
Written and maintained by an AZ wheeler and driveway wrencher. Always cross-reference your factory service manual — modifications affect vehicle safety and warranty. Work at your own risk.