I'm sure its on here somewhere but I cant find exactly what I'm looking for, advice on an engine swap. I now have two rangers in my back yard, both 2001's and both 2.3l 5 speed. One i wrecked back in June, the engine and drivetrain are in great shape, and one i found with a blown engine for $100. I want to put my good engine and trans, on the straight frame. Any advice to make my life easier would be greatly appreciated. Ill be happy to provide any pictures at request.

 

The M5OD-R1 manual transmissions rarely have problems, so I would just pull out and swap the Duratec 2.3l engines.
But you can swap both engine and trans.
I would still do the clutch and replace rear main seal on engine regardless.

Also the Duratec 2.3l has a coolant hose connection on the rear of the engine, that needs to be replaced as well since it is almost impossible to get to without removing the transmission, so better safe than sorry.

Mid-2001 is when Rangers first got the Duratec 23, or 2.3l DOHC, engines
1998 to Early-2001 had the 2.5l Lima engines
Not interchangeable

 

How difficult is it to separate the engine and trans, also, where do I hook the engine hoist?

 

Same as any other engine/trans, unbolt bell housing, upper bolts are hard to get at on almost all Rangers

You will need to look at the front and rear of engine to see if hoist eyes/hooks were left in place, if not then you will need to find bolt holes for chain attachments.

Now metal exhaust manifold can often be used, strap old "safety belt" around it at rear cylinder.
Plastic intake is a no-no
Then use front accessory bolt hole, the larger the better, for the front of the engine

 

Pictures of where I should look?