Hello, I just bought a very clean 90 ranger, extra cab, 2.9L 5 speed manual with A/C. The 2.9 is done, so wanted to swap to a 4.0L. any suggestions on what year 4.0 to look for to help eliminate the computer/wiring/fitness issues?

Thanks,

 

Welcome to the forum

4.0l OHV or SOHC were both fuel injected and distributorless, so need a computer.
Tom Morana racing makes a 4.0l OHV intake for carb conversion, but at $995 .....pricey

And distributor is also a problem, 2.9l TFI will work but needs the computer, so you would need to do some custom work to convert it to vacuum advance

1990-1994 4.0l OHV with computer and engine wiring harness would be easiest swap.
2.9l and 4.0l OHV used the same block so motor mounts and transmission match up.

If you want a carb and distributor setup then you need to go to a 302(5.0l) V8, and an M5OD-R2 manual trans from a 1997 to 2008 F-150 2WD with 4.2l V6, this V6 has same trans bolt pattern as 302(5.0l)
Ford 302 engines came with carbs and distributors for many years and lots of 3rd party parts for them

 

Thanks for the info. On the look out for a 90-94 4.0 Ranger as a donor.