Explorer 302 block questions

forkliftfixr · Jan 13, 2008

As some of you know I got that deal on the complete 96 Explorer 302. Someone mentioned it being a "sportsman" block..... What exactly does that mean? Also does the "XXX" casting letters by the lifter valley mean anything? My final question... Since the 96 Explorer block has an external oil coller mounted where the filter would be on our cars, I removed that to only find that there is no way to install the filter without that. Does anyone know if there is a filter relocating kit available? I did a google search and was only able to find relocating kits for the 6 cylinder. By looking at the engine bay, I am thinking if I install this block in there and use that oil cooler setup that it will not fit. Any suggestions?

If you dont know what I am talking about, let me know and I will post a photo.

mich_666 · Jan 14, 2008

Post a pic! <

forkliftfixr · Jan 14, 2008

Here is a photo of the external oil cooler on the 96 Explorer block, if you think about where the oil filter is located on our cars, you will see that this piece would possibly hit the stabilizer bar. Yes, this is stock on the Explorer and is hooked to the water pump.

This photo shows the cooler removed and as you can see there is no threads to put the filter onto because the cooler is held on by an internally threaded bolt.

birel21y · Jan 15, 2008

the oil cooler will work. i did this swap with a 1990 gt, 1995, and 1996.

forkliftfixr · Jan 15, 2008

Thank You, I appreciate you taking the time to answer.

Slow95Cobra · Jan 16, 2008

you can probably unscrew the bung that is there, go to a dealership and buy a filter bung for a GT. i would have to look at one to know for sure, but im sure it unscrews and a threaded version goes in.