Wanting to know if there are any issues with this swap? Both are 4x4 Automatics. I have seen info that the 1997 will fit and some said no, only the 1998 to 2000. I will probably only use the short block off the 1997 anyway due to the EGR and double fuel lines. ANY advice or info is appreciated!

 

EGR or no EGR need to match computer.

1990 to 2000 4.0l OHV would be fine to use, especially just the short block.
The heads were changed in 1998 to make exhaust system heat up faster for better cold start emissions.
1996 and earlier have 6 bolt crank/flexplate , 1997 and up had 8 bolt, so you should be OK in that respect but flexplates are not that expensive in any case.

Good read here on the changes in the 4.0l over the 10 years: Rebuilding The Ford 4.0L Pushrod V6, Doug Anderson, Automotive Rebuilder, April 2001

Always change the rear main seal


Yes you will have to use upper and lower intake from original engine, because of the different fuel systems(1998 and up), and just for easier wiring match ups for sensors and controls.

Also Ford switched from 3 wire Cam Position Sensor to a 2 wire in the late '90's, that also has to match computer so if original engine has 2 wire CPS swap it over to "new" engine.

 

Thanks for the info! I read some of Anderson's stuff and it is great but it did not mention the cam pos sensor like you did:-) As for the non-egr vs the egr, my plan was to use the 2000 puter since I was using the 2000's exhaust manifolds. If I read your reply correctly I need to use the 97's puter?
Thanks again for your expertise!

 

If the 2000 computer has EGR control software then you need the EGR system hooked back up, or you will get CEL(check engine light) on all the time.

If you have 2000 Ranger and 2000 computer then use it, or there will be other issues to deal with.
The computer runs the engine systems but also the automatic trans and interfaces with speed signal and body electrics(GEM or SJB), also PATS(passive anti-theft system).
So changing computer has a whole other set of issues that can come up, even swapping in another 2000 computer would have issues.

 

RonD, Thanks again! That's kind of the way I was thinking just wanted to be sure that I was "understanding". :-)
Many thanks!!