Bob's swap project: Level II meets 5.0L
#276
#277
Originally Posted by zabeard
Did you get a bum abs unit?
#279
Originally Posted by zabeard
lol, at least you will admit it! must be a bit different unit than the one on the 4x4 ranger?
I guess I should explain. I intend to keep the original 2003 Ranger 4WABS Module for the stock Ranger ABS and use a second 4WABS Module from a 99~2001 Explorer just for the VSS conversion. Others have transplanted the entire Explorer ABS system into 2001+ Rangers to get the VSS to work but I don't want to do that.
My reason is that 2001+ Rangers have Electronic Brake Force Distribution built into the ABS software instead of using a traditional mechanical proportioning valve. Without the mechanical valve, it is much better to retain the EBFD. IMO, this is especially true with my non factory rear discs/calipers/pads which are stronger than the stock drums.
So, the stock 4WABS will operate as it always has and the Explorer module should take care of the VSS conversion from the rear axle ABS sensor.
#281
#282
Originally Posted by 5speedin2.3
very nice bob, i cant want to see it done.
focus brakes are super easy to replace, it took me and my friend about 20min todo, well it took a few hours but we had to find a store that sold the torques bit that we needed lol.
focus brakes are super easy to replace, it took me and my friend about 20min todo, well it took a few hours but we had to find a store that sold the torques bit that we needed lol.
#283
Originally Posted by rwenzing
I figured as much. It's more the nuisance factor than anything else. Who wants to do mundane econobox maintenance when there's a fun project to work on?
as soon as i find a job i should be putting a solid axle under my truck and making it 4wd.
#285
good to hear its back up and running. This week i have to takle the rest of my wiring and throw in my ABS module, let me know what you findings are on trying to keep the Ranger module in place and just use the explorer one for VSS. I'd be interested in doing that if you find a way to make it work.
#286
Originally Posted by INT3RC3PTOR
let me know what you findings are on trying to keep the Ranger module in place and just use the explorer one for VSS. I'd be interested in doing that if you find a way to make it work.
#287
#289
Absolutely. Everything is working except the VSS. That kills the speedometer and cruise but the PCM can still come up with an alternate shift schedule without it. I finished the duals so they now exit out under the bumper and the interior is so much quieter. It still makes V8 music but much more civilized.
It is definitely quicker than the 4.0L and much snappier in the low/mid RPM ranges. However, Mustangs have nothing to fear since this thing is probably pushing 4500 pounds now.
It is definitely quicker than the 4.0L and much snappier in the low/mid RPM ranges. However, Mustangs have nothing to fear since this thing is probably pushing 4500 pounds now.
#291
Originally Posted by Gearhead61
where did all that weight come from Bob? Doesn't a normal ranger weigh about 3800?
if he went with aluminum heads and aluminum radiator he could lose about 75-100 pounds, but those parts are EXPENSIVE!.....heads alone would run close to $1,000 and the radiator probably another $300-$500.....
#293
Originally Posted by Gearhead61
Yeah but where did the other 400 lbs come from? I'm not saying its not feasible... that's just a lot of weight for a relatively small truck.
either way, the IFS Ranger suspension is EXACTLY like an Explorer's which had the v8 in it, so i doubt it will be a problem......and i would say it would be extremely quick since it is in a light platform....
#294
Originally Posted by Gearhead61
where did all that weight come from Bob? Doesn't a normal ranger weigh about 3800?
Using Ford's towing numbers from the 2003 owners manual, the curb weight of a stock LII is:
9500-5180 = 4320 (automatic)
7000-2720 = 4280 (manual)
Based on that, I would think that 4500 is pretty close for a LII with an iron V8, large automatic, giant transfer case, trailer hitch, Explorer consoles, etc.... plus just about every other silly mod anyone ever dreamed up.
#296
Originally Posted by greygooseranger
^^^Maybe even a little more than that....
#297