I have a 95 2.3 ranger auto and the head gasket is bad along with at least one set of rings. I have a junk yard engine and I was thinking about changing a few things on the junk yard engine before I put it in the truck and was wondering if there is any of those things that should just go ahead and be done while its out. Even if it cost some now but saves me a ton of headache 2 months down the road I would rather go ahead and replace the stuff while I have access

Things I am thinking about changing
Plugs and wires (new from other truck) I thought that was the problem
thermostat (new from other truck)
timing belt
fluids

I know on my truck the alternator power steering pump work. not sure about ac. thinking about not using ac but I think that there may be too much to take off and not sure how to get a good measurement of a new serp belt or if there would even be one to match. the engine from the junk yard has 116k on it and its a stick. I appreciate any help and your time. Is there anything else that I need to look out for or do to ensure ease of install and a long life?

 

If the engine that you want to put in is a stick and yours was an automatic pull out the pilot bushing in the end of the crankshaft so the torque converter fits in properly. Also swap out the rear main engine seal and the front crankshaft seal.