I'm sure that someone has done this before, so I am looking for some advice. I just bought a 1986 ranger in good condition body wise. The motor is shot, the steering is locked up, and I will throw a dana 33 under it on the front side just to round it out. It currently has 33's on it. I was looking for a replacement motor. The stock one is a 2.9L. I was wondering if there is a way, or how hard would it be, to put the 4.0L under it. What else would have to be swapped out? Would the stock trans mount to this? Many "rookie" questions. Looking for any advice that people have out there. Even if that means staying stock. Thanks all.

 

I don't think it would be terribly difficult.

I've seen a 302 swapped into those trucks before.

Just make sure you get all the proper mounting brackets for it.

 

the 4.0 will bolt to a 2.9 transmission, but the 2.9 transmission is not designed for the power/torque of the 4.0 if you are easy on it, it will last a while, but probably not a long time.

also be looking at wiring, throttle cable, hoses, etc.

 

Great advice so far. Thanks!

 

Why not just go for a 302?

 

id go with the v8 i got a 86 long bed with a chevey 383 stroker and 700r trans and a ford 9 in rear end and it works great

 

v-8 also means sas though.... the oil pan hits the diff....

 

He could lift it....doesn't necessarily mean sas

 

it is lifted 6 inches. i was also thinking about a 2.3 w/turbo. any thoughts?