My 2005 ranger vin 8th digit "U" has a dead hole ...compression readings are 1.) 135 2.) 135 3.) 140 4.) "20" 5.) 135 6.) 130 the dead hole I suspect is a problem in the cylinder head since car drive and doesn't smoke and doesn't overheat, possibly a crack under a valve seat
I don't have any experience with these trucks, but I bought it for 200 bucks and a floor jack. I would like to fix it for my daughter. I have a 2001 ford explorer as a donor engine ..it's low miles runs like a top, without a roof, since it's a wreck roll over procured for the price of towing it in.
Any info would be appreciated, possibly swap the whole banana engine trans harness drive train, is that possible, what are the problems associated with a swap to early engine 2001 versus 2001. Once again not trying to waste anybodies time...this is serious ****.
BTW the Explorer Engine is a 4.0L

 

Welcome to the forum

No, not a good swap, yes, have to swap engine, trans, computer and all the wiring, plus exhaust and mounts, so same swap as a V8 into your 2001 Ranger which would be worthwhile even with a free 4.0l donor, but up to you.

The 2004 to 2006 Rangers with 3.0l engines did have a bad batch of exhaust valves seats that caused what you described

TSB seen here: https://www.therangerstation.com/for..._05-26-3.shtml

You can just replace the heads and have a good running engine again, the 3.0l Vulcan was used from 1986 to 2008 and outside of this exhaust seat issue it was a good reliable engine
There was one other thing that happened with these, the water pump bolts to the front engine cover, not to the block, so there is a gasket between block and front cover that can leak coolant, not uncommon for these to leak, so have a close look around the edges of front cover

 

Will 4 liter heads fit a 3 liter ? No. Two different engine families.

 

Which v-8 will fit, I'm not versed on Ford...are you thinking 302ci unit, Now that's what I'm talking about!!! I would of course put all the hardware injection ecu. The entire ball of wax lol. I appreciate your time and prompt response. Thank You. Which model Ford do you recommend I get for a donor.

 

Yes, the Ford 302(5.0l) is only 20" wide so fits in Ranger engine bay

2004 and up Rangers use digital dash and interfaces so tough to do V8 conversions.
All the interior electrics are controlled by microprocessor there are no direct controls, and need the engine computer for gauge readings

I would just fix the 3.0l engine and drive it
Or sell it and get an older Ranger that already has the V8 conversion or one you can do the V8 conversion on