I have a 1997 Ranger that I got given to me. The 2.3 in it was blown (the guy ran it out of water) and was no good. I can't for the life of me find a 2.3 around here so I was thinking on either putting a 4.0 or 5.0 in it (we've got plenty of those around). Which do you guys think? I was going to put the 5.0 in my 86 but from what I've gathered its easier to put it in the 97. I can get the 5.0 with an auto trans in it for about $300. So what do you guys think? 4.0 or 5.0? V6 vs. V8?
Thanks for the input.

 

If you are doing it anyway just go with the V8.

 

^^^ agree

 

Hmmm this is a question ive pndered and my motor isnt even blown. lol. Ive got the 3slow and definitley WOULDNT recomend it. Only becuz of power, reliability is GREAT. Anyways, if you put a 4l in it you get pretty good power and if/when you go to sell it its marketable to a bigger population becuz it will still get pretty good fuel milage. If you go with a 5l you get lots of power, MIGHT start to break things, and probably wont get very good milage. However, i dont have much knowledge so therefore i am speaking purely on theory so anybody feel free to correct me:)

 

Well, I've been thinking the same thing. I really want the power. And I'm not concerned about breaking things. Seeing as if I put a 5.0 in it then I will also get an 5.0 auto tranny, drive shaft, diff., and all that good stuff.
Swapping An Explorer 5.0L In To A 1998-Up Ranger
And it will also be a shower if I go with the 5.0. I'd lower it, get slicks for it, shave the doors and all that good stuff. So I wouldn't be using it as a DD unless there is a guy out there that thinks his truck is better than mine...in that case I'd take it out and smoke him!!

 

i'd jam the 5.0 in it. they both get ****ty gas mileage anyways!!!!

 

do th 4.0L and throw a supercharger on it!


seriously, is the 97 a reg cab? if so, 4.0Ls in reg cabs are somewhat not as common. i'd do the 4.0L. seems like less BS when (if) you have to do any sniff tests down the road.