Ranger-Forums - The Ultimate Ford Ranger Resource

Ranger-Forums - The Ultimate Ford Ranger Resource (https://www.ranger-forums.com/)
-   2.9L & 3.0L V6 Tech (https://www.ranger-forums.com/2-9l-3-0l-v6-tech-32/)
-   -   New head. One original and one improved versions. Ok to use? (https://www.ranger-forums.com/2-9l-3-0l-v6-tech-32/new-head-one-original-one-improved-versions-ok-use-156432/)

Arrowthwr Dec 31, 2018 04:21 PM

New head. One original and one improved versions. Ok to use?
 
Hey all,I am wondering on my 88 Ranger 2.9 l whether or not I can use one of each style of stock heads on the motor successfully? It originally had the improved heads with square mounts for the valve train but one cracked after my son ran it with a blown head gasket. I ordered a new one from a company that I don't remember but according to the photo and description it should have been the newer version like the original. Unfortunately he had sent me the older style head that is prone to cracking. Yes, I tried to return it and hold him to what was in the description but he pointed out that it was worded just so that he would be able to send me either head and he was correct. Anyway, is it possible to run these two heads or are there differences that would keep me from doing it. I have currently reassembled the motor with the mismatched heads and of course it will not start. As a matter of fact it will not fire. I have done the 50/50 test and I do have spark but even with that, I squirt fuel into the intake and it will not run. I may have answered my own question but wanted someone that has ever tried it or run into this issue confirm it. Thank you in advance for any information.

RonD Dec 31, 2018 04:56 PM

Its OK to run one of each, difference will not effect compression or combustion, intake alignment and exhaust were also the same

Spark timing may be 180deg off if 50/50 didn't get it to start

Arrowthwr Dec 31, 2018 05:01 PM


Originally Posted by RonD (Post 2146855)
Its OK to run one of each, difference will not effect compression or combustion, intake alignment and exhaust were also the same

Spark timing may be 180deg off if 50/50 didn't get it to start

thank you for your response. I was hoping that it would be positive. Although I would rather have a better head, that is all they had at the time so I can at least get it running. As for timing, I've pointed that thing in almost every direction of the compass and still no fire so I got frustrated and let it sit for the last couple of months. I'm going to take another shot at it tonight and tomorrow and see what happens. Thanks again for your help!

RonD Dec 31, 2018 07:18 PM

Well there are only 2 positions you need to try

Put crank at TDC, 10deg BTDC if you like
Put distributor's rotor so it points at #1 wire on cap when distributor is dropped down all the way, you can mark the side of distributor so you know where #1 AND #5 are without cap on

Try to start
If it doesn't start then put crank on TDC again
Rotor will be pointed at #1 OR #5 now
Reverse it, so if it was pointed at #1 lift it up and point it at #5 then lower back down
If it was pointed at #5 then lift it and point it at #1

Those are the only two positions you need to try, if neither works then there is another issue

Firing order for the 2.9l is 1-4-2-5-3-6, distributor turns clockwise
On a V6 to balance the engine there needs to be 3 Matched Pairs, you can find the match pairs on any engine using the firing order
Divide firing order in half and put one below the other
1-4-2-
5-3-6

1/5, 4/3, 2/6 are the Matched pairs
So 1 and 5 are both at Top Dead Center at the same time, one is on compression stroke, the other on exhaust stroke, the Cam and Valves decide that not the Crank
This means distributor should be pointed at #1 or #5 when crank mark is at TDC


All times are GMT -6. The time now is 05:57 AM.


© 2026 MH Sub I, LLC dba Internet Brands