Blew the head gasket in my 2001 Ranger 3.0 (200K miles) and found a salvage engine in Keene NH -good shop, owner picked up the phone (!) and answered all my questions - $1500 shipped.
I do my own work so dont really know a mechanic anymore- I found an indie shop with good reviews and am gonna risk it, they say 1500 so all in around 3k for new power.

I figure I'll order a set of motor mounts and bring them in w/ truck. What else would be good to replace while its out?

Thanks n happy 26!

Caleb

 

Follow up>
I changed the water pump, timing chain and sprockets, timing chain cover gasket, cleaned and put on new valve cover gaskets, new oil pan gasket, magnetic oil pan plug, Just for someone doing it next time....
Oh yeah and a new OEM camhshaft synchronizer. I hired a self taught mechanic who did it in my driveway for $900. He did a great job, runs perfectly and zero engine codes.