So I just started a 302 swap on an 85 ranger longbed 2wd. I got a 1980 302 that I just pulled apart tonight, i got lucky it only has some issues with one cylinder. Im not going to build it rediculous, just simple with a nice cam. I was just wondering if anyone else has done the same swap, and had any info for me. Any hard parts to find, any fab work, etc. Also any suggestions on transmissions, I was thinking c4, if not I have an old school top loader 5spd that is new. Can I use stock manifolds or do I have to go with headers, dont get me wrong headers are good but im on a budget right now. I am wondering about the fans too, I dont know if I will have enough clearance for the stock fan, or if I have to run an Efan. Any ways let me know!

 

youll probably have to run an Efan, i don't see the stock fan fitting...but hey maybe.

 

I was told that I might have to get a short water pump to get it to work with the stock fan. There is one way to find out I guess, just do it!

 

definitely. i'd get the measurements on how long the short water pump is rather than going and buy ing one haha

 

Ya that would be smart, I'll get the bare motor in and be able to tell if it will work or not. I thought about putting it in my 06, but realized it wasnt practical. lol

 

So got the motor tworn down yesterday, found a bad thing...The number one cylinder has a big gouge from the bad rings, and surface rust from a blown head gasket. So looks like I am going to bore it which is good, but bad also cuz its going to cost more. Also I decided to run a 351 widsor cam, and firing order. Has anyone heard anything about switching the firing order, bad/good? Anyways more info on swapping would be great.

 

Here is a cheap rebuild kit I found.http://www.jcwhitney.com/autoparts/I...21427910393959