I have a 01 2.3 DOHC is there any other year that will work other then the 01-02 like the salvage yards are saying I do not mind changing over parts I just find it hard to believe that Ford would have changed the casting that much will a long block work if i change the intake PLEASE HELP!

 

You don't say what you want to do???

You have an '01 Ranger with 2.3l duratec engine, 2WD, Auto? or Manual trans?

Do you want to replace the engine or maybe the transmission?

The 2.3l duratec 23NS engine was used in 2001-2011 Ford Rangers or 2001-2010 Mazda B2300, any 2.3l engine from one of these would work fine.
It was also used in quite a few front wheel drive Fords, so transverse mounted, 2.3l 23EW, you could use the long block from one of those.

This engine was actually design for transverse mounting, and one unfortunate aspect of that is a rear coolant hose fitting, if it breaks you have to remove the transmission to get to it, yes remove the transmission to fix a coolant leak, ouch.

2000 and earlier Rangers and Mazdas used the 2.3l/2.5l Lima engines, totally different engine than the duratec, so these won't just bolt in.

 

I'm sorry I'm replacing the engine and the salvage yard is saying the the motor is 01-02 only did not sound right so the long block will work from 01 to 10 ? and its a 5spd manual

 

Yes, best is from a Ranger or Mazda B2300 since most of the parts left on the engine will be useable for you, never hurts having replacement parts.
If it is from a manual trans you could get a extra Flywheel, but even if it from an automatic you can swap your flywheel over, I think the 2.3l only came in 2WD, but a 4WD may not have the same oil pan.

ALWAYS change rear main seal when an engine is out, and with Rangers changing the clutch slave, throwout and pilot bearings is always a good idea

 

thank you for your time and help that takes a load off my mind. I know what I'm doing this weekend

 

Your welcome.

Just a heads up, used engines can be OK or not so OK, lol.
warranties don't cover the install and removal.

Unless the block is damaged rebuilding is usually better in the long run, as the saying goes, "better to deal with the devil you know that the devil you don't know"
Used engine is an unknown.

Master rebuild kit for 2001 2.3l duratec engine is $500

Used 2.3l duratec engine with 100-150k miles are $1,400+