Hey everyone, first post here.
I just had a question on how hard it would be to take an engine from a newer focus or something similar, and swap it into my current 2.3l 89' Ranger.

What would I need to know?
Is it even possible?
Space issues?

Can I use the same transmission from my Ranger? (Manual)

Thank you very much.
I'll check back soon. :)

I hope to complete this swap within 3 months.

If I can't get a 2.3 in there, I may swap a 4.0.. then I'll be asking some questions about that! Haha.

 

A 4.0 would be a better investment. Mind you, more work I'm sure, but it'll pay off in the end.

 

The focus is a FWD car and the engine sits sideways. The Ranger with a 2.3 duratec would be a better solution but you would be better off getting a Explorer 5.0. It's just as much work and the 5.0 is better suited for the Ranger. The 2.3 is a great engine (especially the mazdaspeed3 turbo version) but is better for the focus due to torque and horsepower curves.

Actually the best thing to do is pick up a 03 duratec 2.3 4 banger Ranger because it will be much cheaper than doing the swap. The only problem is usually if you get a 2.3 Ranger then it's stripped down.

 

An explorer 5.0?
I thought the explorer had a 4.0?

Thank you guys for the advice, What exactly would I need to swap a 4.0 from an explorer into my 89 ranger?
are their certain years that won't work or can I just pick up say a 05' explorer and put it in my 89'?
would the transmission bolt up?
what about the computer?

I have a professional automotive technician that would help me with the entire process (I want to learn how to do it, but this will be my first 'real' swap so I may need some help along the way.)

Sorry for so many questions, haha. I just want to get this done quick!
I figure I can probably get a wrecked explorer or something similar with the engine running fine for cheap and pull it myself, so I figure why not. I love my little Ranger.

 

4.0s and 5.0s are boring. stick to your original idea, and build a sweet duratec.

this guy is doing it:
2.3 duratec swap into '89 Ranger GT - Turbo Ranger Forums

 

rangers had 4.0s and explorers had 4.0's and 5.0's. i think the newest you can go on explorers is 03.

 

so, the duratec would sit sideways?
I wonder if I could get a 2.3 turbo from an old SVO mustang or something similar.
Thoughts?

Oh yeah, and when I do this I will be posting pictures of the progress.

 

i think you need to spend some more time looking around that site i linked you to.

 

2.3 turbo from an SVO,Thunderbird turbo coupe,Cougar,and the Merkur XR4Ti will work but if your asking if this engine will work you really need to do some research. The swap is not hard if you do your research you need the engine tranny wiring harness all turbo parts and ecu. Only get the EFI turbo 4 the early blow through carbureted setup sucked.

 

how about a 2.3L from a Miata...

er just checked 2.0L out of a new MX-5

 

Im sure its possible. But the question is. Is it worth it?

 

how about a honda 1.6? that would be cool =P seriously the 2.3 turbo from a t-bird or stang would be the easiest swap and would be a fun motor. i've got and 84 mustang turbo i'm planning on stealing the motor from once i get some funds together. finding one of these motors is not very easy though, so jump on one if you find one.

 

As stated above, do some research.............I have seen a 3.0 from a Taurus put into a 2000 Ranger, guy had to change motor mount brackets & such, but it worked fine.