he's got a hoist and every ford specific tool you can imagine, and he says he'll help me swap out my 2.3 when i find an engine, he wants me to go with a 4.6, what do you guys think? i need a good balance of power and mileage

 

I think a 4.6 would be a great motor for a ranger. Especially a 4.6 termi cobra motor

 

Agreed, and fixed for you

 

Haha yes, those are the only ones I think about any way

 

how much would a useable one run me? from a wrecker

 

If you're lucky to find one, probably ~$6000. haha, they are supercharged, and priced right.

Otherwise, you can get a 4.6 dohc out of a lincoln Mark VIII. they are pretty popular to come buy. Then get yourself a tranny out of a mustang and have a 5-speed manual. Probably score that for ~$1000 depending on your area.