Ford 5.0L Coyote V8 Crate Engine

In 2026, the Ford 5.0L Coyote V8 remains the undisputed king of the modular crate engine market. Whether you’re building a restomod F-100, a track-focused Mustang, or a custom “Coyote-swap” project, Ford Performance has streamlined the lineup into several distinct “Generations.”

The big news for 2026 is the widespread availability of the Gen 4 Coyote, derived from the S650 Mustang Dark Horse and GT.

1. 2026 Crate Engine Lineup

Listing Details

• 5.0-Liter Third-Generation Coyote V8 Crate Engine
• Aluminum Block & Cylinder Heads
• Forged Steel Crankshaft
• Double-Overhead Camshafts
• Composite Intake Manifold
• 10-Quart Capacity Oil Pan
• Drive-by-Wire Electronic Throttle Body
• Direct & Port Fuel Injection
• ECU
• Wiring Harnesses
• Airbox & Plumbing
• Accelerator Pedal Assembly

2. Technical Highlights: Gen 4 vs. Gen 3

• Dual Air Intake: The Gen 4 features a dual-throttle-body intake manifold. This provides significantly better airflow but requires a wider engine bay footprint and a specific “Gen 4” Control Pack.

• Cylinder Deactivation: Some crate variants of the Gen 4 include Ford’s latest cylinder deactivation hardware for fuel efficiency, though most performance enthusiasts “tune” this out.

• Oil System: Ford has moved toward simplified oil pans on the Gen 4 to make them easier to fit into older chassis (like the Fox Body or F-100).

3. The “Swap” Essentials (2026 Pricing)

You cannot simply bolt a Coyote in and turn a key. In 2026, the “Control Pack” is the most critical additional expense.

• Ford Performance Control Pack: Includes the PCM (ECU), wiring harness, drive-by-wire pedal, and oxygen sensors.

  • Estimated Price: $2,200 – $2,800.

• Power Steering/AC Brackets: Since modern Coyotes use Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS), you will likely need a “Front End Accessory Drive” (FEAD) kit from companies like Holley or CVF to run a traditional hydraulic pump.

  • Estimated Price: $1,500 – $2,500.

4. 2026 Installation Advice

• Hood Clearance: The Coyote is a physically massive engine. It is much wider than a 351 Windsor or even a 460 Big Block due to the Double Overhead Cams (DOHC). Measure your shock towers—if you’re swapping into an early Mustang (1964–1970), you must cut the shock towers or use an aftermarket IFS (Independent Front Suspension) kit.

• Transmission Choice: The Coyote 10-speed (10R80) automatic is the most popular choice in 2026, but the Tremec TKX 5-speed is the gold standard for manual swaps due to its compact size and high RPM capability.

5. Warranty & Reliability

Ford Performance typically offers a 2-year / 24,000-mile limited warranty on crate engines, provided they are installed with the correct Ford Control Pack