I am changing the motor in my 87 Ranger from the original 2.9 to a mustang 3.8. The ranger motor doesn't have a crank sensor, the 3.8 one does. What other than the computer do I need to change?

 

Welcome to the forum

Assuming 2WD Ranger

You will use the 3.8l computer and its engine wiring harness, also the 3.8l transmission

What year is the 3.8l computer?
Pre-1994 is best for wiring

If 1996 or newer so you will need the exhaust O2 sensor wiring.

And if newer you will need to change instrument cluster or at least speedometer odometer setup, as the signal will be electronic on 1996 or newer transmissions

3.8l is not a popular swap.
Same work as doing the 5.0l swap but less power and more wiring and fabrication of parts

 

The Mustang is a 94 and thanks for the info.

 

1994 Mustang will use the older computer, EEC-IV 60 pin, so will be much easier to wire into the '87 Ranger which used the same type of 60 pin computer

Take as much wiring as you can out of the Mustangs engine bay, including fuse box, ignition module and relays

 

Actually the ranger is 4 wheel drive

 

You will need to check but I think the 3.8l used the Windsor V8 Small Block bell housing pattern

This would mean you could get 5.0l/302 transmission and transfer case from an F-150

If Automatic you would need an AODE with transfer case, thats what the 1994 computer is programmed for and can operate, assuming Mustang is an automatic

Manual would be your choice, best option, IMO, would be M5OD-R2 trans with transfer case from a 1997 or newer 4x4 F-150 with a 4.2l V6(same Windsor pattern) so should fit 3.8l engine

And custom drive shafts

 

Thank you