I recently got a new engine for my Ford ranger after blowing up my old engine this new engine has 94 thousand miles and is currently sitting in my garage. I want to know if I should just go head and replace the head gasket even though there is nothing wrong with the head gasket on this engine. Second question if I pull the heads is it a hard job to do and do I have to retime the entire engine? Or can I get away with replacing the head gaskets and not having to retime the entire engine? Second what are some other cheap things I should replace while the engine is out I already plan on doing all the other top end gaskets and the oil pan and my timing chain tensioners.

 

4.0l SOHC 2001-2011 Ranger engine, so NOT a 4.0l OHV 1990-2000 Ranger

The 4.0l OHV was the engine that got cracked heads

4.0l SOHC needed new timing chains if 2001-2003,and also new tensioners every 100k miles

You never change head gaskets just because, they do not wear out, then "blow" from the engine being overheated
On the 4.0l SOHC, yes you would have to re-time the cams if heads come off

In general when any engine is out you would replace the oil pump and oil pan gasket
Also install a new rear main seal