Hi guys so the thing is I have a 1989 ford ranger xlt 4x4 and I was wondering if I could swap my 2.9 out for a 4.0. How difficult would this be? Would I be able to use the same transmission or would I have to swap that too. Also is there any other engine besides the 2.9 you guys would suggest that may bolt up to my transmission? Thanks in advance guys!

 

Welcome to the forum

Yes, the 2.8l, 2.9l and 4.0l shared the same engine block so are interchangeable as far as motor mounts and transmission bolt patterns

You would need a 1990-1994 4.0l engine, computer and its wiring harness, 2wd or 4x4 doesn't matter for this part

1989 2.9l 4x4 would use Mitsubishi FM146 manual transmission or an A4LD automatic, either will bolt to the 4.0l block
If manual you would use the 4.0l flywheel and clutch

If you have an A4LD automatic then the 4.0l computer must be from an automatic as well, 1990-1994, 1995 and up Ranger used different automatic and different computer which is doable but more wiring is required

Good read here on this swap: https://therangerstation.com/tech_li...ion_faqs.shtml


Only other swap would be to a 302(5.0l) V8, but thats engine and trans and transfer case, so much more involved