To start the truck is a 2003, 3.0L, 4x4, 5sp...

I am in the process of putting a list together for a V-8 Swap.
I have the engine (5.0L) and Trans (non-Ford) and T/C (non-Ford).
What I am curious about IS:

1) Do you have to use the Torque Monster Headers in a 4x4 2003 Ranger IF you are not using OEM Heads ?
(I heard Swap header from a second gen ranger will work on the 03 swap as long as you get the 4x4 version).

2) What are the options for Motor Mounts without fabricating - do you have to use the Explorer Mounts or are these the least expensive ?
(I’ve been told the older chassis in a 4x4 are the same as the newer one and swap mounts will work).

3) Wiring Harness - if you aren’t using an Explorer for the parts, is there an aftermarket harness that will work.
(If not using PATS and not using an OEM Trans and T/C, is it worth it using an Explorer Harness or is that the only way with a 2003 4x4 swap) ?

When doing one of these later model swaps without using an Explorer for a base parts vehicle, starts you thinking about what else can be used.
The cost of everything has gone through the roof so nothing is cheap and since I have the engine/Tans and T/C already from another project I thought I might get away with using what I have.
Only problem(s) is mix and match sometimes isn’t the best idea.

Thks ahead of time.
Any info will help.
ltr

 

OK then what are people using and what year Ranger are you running ?

 

I think TM headers are the only aftermarket that fit in the front end of our rangers.

motor mounts swap right over from explorer so probably easiest to just find some of those.

right now i'm running 1999 mountainer 5.0 Transmission and AWD Tcase. still planning on swapping to BW4406 Manual tcase soon.

1999 ranger. everything basically swapped over and was pretty easy.

 

Vonhanson, thks for the reply…
That’s what I thought the TMs were the only thing, but I was hoping for something else; there too big, need something smaller.
I will be using a 5.0 but the trans and t/c will be after market so I’m in new area.
I am hoping that all will work out.
ltr

 

97-back 5.0 swap headers won't fit 98+ 4x4.

For 98+, these are the off-the-shelf choices listed in the order that I consider worst to best:

Early 5.0 Ex factory stamped and welded sheet metal manifolds
(salvage yard, poor flow, common to find PS manifold cracked)

Late 5.0 Ex factory cast iron manifolds
(salvage yard, better flow/more durable than the early style but still restrictive)

Ford Racing Performance Parts headers for 5.0 Ex
(out of production and hard to find used, better than either of the production manifolds but not great)

Torque Monster Headers for 5.0 Ex
(available new or sometimes used, compromised by space limitations but by far the best bolt-on available for a 98+ 5.0 Ranger swap)

Be sure to verify compatibility of the manifolds/headers with the spark plug angle of the heads being used. Most aftermarket heads and most Ford factory heads (including GT-40's) use the same angle. However, 97 1/4 and later Explorer GT-40P heads have a different angle. Torque Monsters are designed to clear (barely) with either angle. Many other manifolds/headers are set up for one or the other. Sometimes, choosing a different plug boot angle can overcome clearance problems, sometimes not.