So I'm in the process of starting a project truck. I'm talking to a guy who's selling a first generation Ford Ranger. My project is to basically pull out the gasoline engine and put in a 4 cylinder diesel engine with an automatic transmission and new rear axel assembly.

However, I have no idea what's a good engine/transmission/rear axel combination is for a First Gen diesel and was wondering if y'all could give me some advice or point me in the right direction.

Thank you very much for your help.

 

First Gen Rangers came with 4cyl diesels, '83 to '87, there were a few in '88
Good read here on what they were: The Early Ford Ranger Diesel Engines

The turbo diesels wasn't bad, without the turbo you basically tolerated it because of MPG, lol.

Cummins 4bt engine has been a popular, and expensive, swap.
Google: Ford Ranger 4bt

 

Thanks! I know Ford did sell some diesel Rangers, but the rarity is the main reason why I'm interested in doing a swap myself. :)

I may actually go with the Cummins for this project. My dad always brought Dodge Ram trucks that had Cummins engine in it, so it may work out for me.

 

There is actually a 4BT swap forum, didn't know that: Cummins 4BT & Diesel Conversions Forums

I also thought someone here or maybe at another site was looking to make a VW TDI trans adapter for RWD or 4x4 use

 

He used a manual, so that is different and would have to be figured out, and he had a later year Ranger than you, but, check out this thread:

TDI Ranger Build

4bt is very heavy. A properly refreshed VW 4 cyl TDI would be the way to go IMO (and that about exhausts my knowledge on the subject).

Chuck