1986 Mustang GT Cam Specs: Power, Performance & History
The 1986 Mustang GT is a classic American muscle car that continues to captivate enthusiasts with its timeless design and robust performance. If you're among those who admire this iconic model, you're probably curious about its engine specifications. Let's delve into the powerhouse that makes the 1986 Mustang GT an adrenaline-pumping ride.
Before we dive into the specifics, let's briefly discuss the engine options available in the 1986 Mustang GT. Ford offered two engine choices: the 5.0L V8 Hochner Series and the 4.9L V8 Windsor engine. The latter was the base engine, while the 5.0L was the engine of choice for those seeking more power.
Engine Options
The 1986 Mustang GT was known for its powerful engine options. Let's explore each in detail.
5.0L High-Output V8 (H.O.) Engine
The 5.0L H.O. engine, colloquially known as the '5.0,' was the pinnacle of Mustang performance in 1986. This engine featured a roller camshaft, a high-performance intake manifold, and a high-output alternator. It was rated at 210 horsepower at 4,600 RPM and 270 lb-ft of torque at 3,000 RPM, making it a formidable force on the road.
As for the cam specs, the 1986 Mustang GT's 5.0L H.O. engine came with a solid lifter camshaft. The camshaft specifications included a duration of 210 degrees at 0.050 inches, an intake lobe of 0.480 inches, and an exhaust lobe of 0.476 inches. This cam profile contributed to the engine's impressive power output.
4.9L V8 Windsor Engine
The 4.9L V8 Windsor engine was the base engine in the 1986 Mustang GT. This engine, while not as powerful as the 5.0L, still offered a respectable amount of horsepower. It was fitted with a hydraulic roller camshaft, which improved low-end torque. The engine was rated at 175 horsepower at 3,800 RPM and 265 lb-ft of torque at 2,000 RPM.
The cam specs of the 4.9L Windsor engine included a duration of 201 degrees at 0.050 inches, an intake lobe of 0.454 inches, and an exhaust lobe of 0.444 inches. While the Windsor engine didn't have the high-end power of the 5.0L, it provided more than enough punch for everyday driving.
Transmission Options
The engine's power was delivered to the rear wheels through two transmission options: a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic.
5-Speed Manual Transmission
The 5-speed manual transmission, designated T5, was a popular choice among Mustang enthusiasts. It featured a wide-ratio design that allowed for both low-speed acceleration and high-speed cruising. The T5 transmission was known for its durability and was capable of handling the power output of the 5.0L H.O. engine.
The T5 transmission was equipped with a medium-duty metallic clutch with a 7.5-inch diameter. The clutch provided smooth engagement and could handle the torque output of the Mustang's engines. The gear ratios were as follows: 1st gear (3.23:1), 2nd gear (1.93:1), 3rd gear (1.32:1), 4th gear (1.01:1), and 5th gear (0.73:1).
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Those who preferred a smoother driving experience could opt for the 4-speed automatic transmission. The AOD (Automatic Overdrive) transmission was designed to provide a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. It was equipped with a lock-up torque converter, which improved fuel economy by reducing slippage at higher speeds.
The AOD transmission used aق}{|Friday|{2 as-unit=}^{65-cup INSERT ''STajax'