2007 ford ranger fx4 with the lvl 2 tow package and stuff. I wanna know the best route for a 5.0 or 4.6, whichever works best for my ranger and wallet. I want a mustang and my ranger but can't afford both so why not make both into one lol.

 

The V8 engines with Over head cams(OHC) are too wide to fit in the pre-2019 Ranger engine bays
The 4.0l SOHC use 60deg V, so fits, the V8s use 90deg V so with OHC, so don't fit

The 302/5.0l OHV V8 was 19" wide, so could fit into Ranger or Explorer engine bay, between heater box and steering shaft, still tight but fit
The Modular V8s are 26" to 28" wide

Also a height issue, 302 was 21" high, modular V8s 26" to 30", but you can do a body lift

Dimensions seen here, scroll down: https://performanceparts.ford.com/do...Dimensions.pdf


You CAN do anything, just be prepared for alot of custom work in the engine bay

 

So a 5.0 from an older explorer like I've been seeing would work?

 

Yes, the 1996 thru 2001 Explorers used the 302/5.0l OHV V8, and had short nose accessories and lower intake, so fits snuggly in Ranger engine bay
You do need to use remote mount oil filter

Basic article here on what to expect: https://www.therangerstation.com/tec...8-2011-ranger/

You will have an extra layer of differences as the 2004 and up Rangers used a Digital Dash, and the 1996-2001 5.0l Computer doesn't have an interface for a digital dash
Not sure whats involved with that wiring, 2003 and older Rangers have analog dash
But it has been done