Anyone know anything about the 4.0 OHV? Just got a '94 and want to know more about the motor.

 

Good read here: Rebuilding The Ford 4.0L Pushrod V6, Doug Anderson, Automotive Rebuilder, April 2001
Also here: The Ford Ranger 4.0L Engine - The Ranger Station

4.0l OHV was in Rangers from 1990 to 2000, in 2001 the 4.0l OHV was discontinued and Ford switch Rangers to 4.0l SOHC, these two engines are not related.

4.0l was a very reliable engine, my '94 has over 300k on bottom end, I made the mistake of over heating it once, and cracked a head, so...........if it starts to overheat, DO NOT try to make it home, or anywhere else, lol, let it cool off and drive it short distances or get it towed, the tow will cost less than a new head.

It makes 160HP but better torque at 220ft/lb than many V6 engines
There are not many upgrades for this engine, if you want more power in your Ranger then a 5.0l V8 is the way to go

 

Reliable motor but power and economy wise... I get 20-25L every 100km, and need to go full throttle to climb a hill... Checked for issues for a long time and never found anything, RonD helped me out on that one.

 

Good engine. I'm happy with mine. I can hold 70 on the highway no problem without down shifting on most hills. It may not be the most powerful motor but it has a lot of low end torque. Low end torque is huge for off-roading and that's what I'm building my truck for. The fuel mileage isn't that bad either. I get about 17 average and 21 on the highway.