So i just bought a 2002 FX4 twin stick with a siezed 4.0 SOHC. My plans are to just put a new engine in it. I found a 2003 4.0 from a ranger with 14,600 miles on it for $850. Just wondering if the 2003 engine will hook right up or if electrical and other connections are different. Any input would be appreciated. Thanks

 

The only major difference is that the 2003 doesn't have EGR. So if you swap the 2002 harness and EGR parts over to the 2003 engine, it should bolt in and plug in.

 

So i'm gonna guess the EGR system will just bolt on, and isn't like on fox mustangs where the egr ports are threaded holes in the back of the heads.
If i just leave the EGR system off will the CEL come on or will the truck even run right? I'm gonna guess it won't considering the computer is programmed to operatre with the EGR system.

 

Eliminating EGR properly requires recalibration usually.

 

All right. From what i've read, i'm probably better off with the 2003 engine since that's the year they supposedly fixed the timing chain issues. Is this correct, or am i just as good off with a 2002 engine?
Thanks

 

It should. There is a plug in place of the EGR tube fitting in the 2003 exhaust manifold and a removable blockoff plate for the EGR valve.



You'll get different opinions on that. Some say the improvement came with the 2003 models, others say 2004. I never had any cam chain problems with my 2003 4.0.

 

Thanks for the input.

 

I think when you get into 04+ 4.0's is when some sensor pigtails changed. Namely the DPFE and the fuel injectors.

I found this out when I went the '06 4.0 route when I swapped my rattlin' like crazy beat to hell '01 engine.